Eastern vs. Western Culture

Western vs. Eastern Culture

• Western cultures typically have a casual dress code; Eastern cultures have formal or traditional attire.
• Coffee is typically a western drink; tea is more common in Eastern cultures.
• In Western cultures, people eat with utensils; in Eastern cultures, chopsticks or hands are used for eating.
• Calling elders by their first names is common in the West, whereas using respectful titles is preferred in the East.
• A soft-matte skin appearance is more common in the West; glass skin look is more common in the East.
• Hip-hop and pop music, along with viral TikTok trends, are Western trends, whereas K-pop/J-pop and dance challenges are more common in Eastern cultures.
• Western cultures feature bold and vibrant colors, in contrast, Eastern cultures prefer soft pastels and neutral colors.
• Students in Western cultures study in dorms or at home, while in Eastern cultures, libraries or cafés are preferred.
• Iphones are more common in the West compared to Android phones in the East.
• Online shopping is popular in the West, whereas in-store shopping is preferred in the East.

Lesson Objectives

• Learners will be able to explain the concept of "self" in several Asian perspectives.
• Learners will be able to differentiate the concept of the self according to Western thought against Eastern thought.
• Learners will be able to create a representation of the Filipino self.

Introduction

• Cultural differences shape how people perceive the "self."
• The Eastern vs. Western perspective is a common distinction.
• Eastern refers to Asia
• Western includes Europe and North America
• The classification has historical and political influences.
• It is important to recognize broader cultural variations like unique perceptions within specific regions, such as within the Philippines.

Abstraction

• Different cultures express their concept of the "self" through literature, social structures, art, dance, and even clothing.
• These elements reveal how societies perceive heroes, authority figures, and individuals.
• Primary focus will be on religious beliefs and political philosophies that have shaped each culture's understanding of the self.
• Discussion will emphasize Eastern perspectives due to existing Western scientific research on the topic.

Asian Philosophies and the "Self": Confucianism

• Confucianism is a code of ethical conduct focused on maintaining social harmony.
• The self is deeply connected to the community's identity, including its successes and failures.
• Self-cultivation is the ultimate goal, but it is always tied to social relationships.
• A Confucian society is hierarchical and order and structure are essential for maintaining balance.

Asian Philosophies and the "Self": Taoism

• Taoism emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao, known as the universe.
• Taoism rejects rigid definitions, hierarchies, and strict social rules.
• The self is seen as part of the universe, not just the community, and is encouraged to live freely.
• The ideal self is one of selflessness, balance, and openness to change.
• Natural actions without societal restrictions are encouraged.

Asian Philosophies and the "Self": Buddhism

• Buddhism teaches that the self is an illusion created by attachments and desires that lead to suffering.
• To achieve Nirvana, one must let go of selfish cravings and break attachments to the material world.
• True enlightenment comes from renouncing the self and embracing detachment, ultimately freeing a person from suffering.

The Eastern Philosophy & the Self

• The self is not individualistic but connected to a greater whole.
• Confucianism and Taoism emphasize harmony with society and nature.
• Buddhism seeks to remove the self completely.
• The goal is not to elevate oneself above others but to live in balance and contribute to a harmonious existence.

Comparing West & East

• Western and Eastern perspectives on the "self" differ significantly.
• Western culture emphasizes individuality, self-improvement, and personal achievements, viewing the self as distinct from others.
• Eastern culture sees the self as interconnected with the community, valuing social roles and harmony.
• Studies show that Americans describe themselves based on personal traits, while Asians focus on their roles in social contexts.
• Western culture promotes competition, direct communication, and equality.
• Eastern culture values cooperation, hierarchy, and indirect communication.
• Globalization, migration, and social influences continue to blur these distinctions.
• Understanding culture and mutual respect is important.

Theorizing the Filipino Self

• Theorizing the Filipino self highlights the effort to "decolonize" perspectives by understanding identity through Filipino cultural experiences.
• Studies like Pilipinolohiya by Prospero Covar, Pantayong Pananaw by Zeus Salazar, and Sikolohiyang Pilipino by Virgilio Enriquez emphasize a more context-appropriate view of the self.
• Enriquez introduced the idea of the Filipino "self" as a shared identity deeply rooted in kapwa, or seeing others as part of oneself.
• This perspective values cooperation, social acceptance, and relationships.
• Cultural concepts like hiya (sense of shame), utang na loob (debt of gratitude), and pakikisama (smooth interpersonal relationships) are significant.

Summary

• Western Perspective: Emphasizes individualism, self-reliance, personal achievement, and self-development through competition, and is considered to be dualistic.
• Eastern Perspective: Prioritizes collectivism, social harmony, and interconnectedness with the environment and the universe, with the consensus that thinking is a holistic practice.
• The Filipino self is deeply connected to the community by a shared identity built around the concept of kapwa.
• Social harmony and collaboration are represented in values such as hiya, utang na loob, and pakikisama.
• This viewpoint represents a move toward a decolonized understanding of Filipino identity, moving away from imposed colonial viewpoints.