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What is the main focus of Western thoughts regarding the self?
What is the main focus of Western thoughts regarding the self?
How do Westerners typically describe themselves compared to Asians?
How do Westerners typically describe themselves compared to Asians?
What defines a collectivistic culture like that of Asians?
What defines a collectivistic culture like that of Asians?
What communication style is typically associated with Western cultures?
What communication style is typically associated with Western cultures?
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Why do Asians often avoid promoting the self?
Why do Asians often avoid promoting the self?
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How does Western philosophy primarily conceptualize the self in relation to society?
How does Western philosophy primarily conceptualize the self in relation to society?
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What is a common characteristic of individualistic cultures, such as that of Westerners?
What is a common characteristic of individualistic cultures, such as that of Westerners?
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What is typically less emphasized in an Eastern cultural context?
What is typically less emphasized in an Eastern cultural context?
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Which statement accurately reflects Eastern philosophical views on self?
Which statement accurately reflects Eastern philosophical views on self?
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How do Western thoughts typically view the self in relation to the world?
How do Western thoughts typically view the self in relation to the world?
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What key concept does the figure of Prometheus represent in Western thought?
What key concept does the figure of Prometheus represent in Western thought?
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Which of the following reflects a characteristic of Western individualism?
Which of the following reflects a characteristic of Western individualism?
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What does 'Cognito, ergo sum' signify in Western thought?
What does 'Cognito, ergo sum' signify in Western thought?
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Which tradition has primarily reinforced the notion of individual rights in Western philosophy?
Which tradition has primarily reinforced the notion of individual rights in Western philosophy?
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What aspect of individuality do Westerners emphasize more compared to Asians?
What aspect of individuality do Westerners emphasize more compared to Asians?
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How do Asians generally view hierarchy in their culture?
How do Asians generally view hierarchy in their culture?
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In contrast to Western philosophies, how is the concept of self viewed in Eastern thought?
In contrast to Western philosophies, how is the concept of self viewed in Eastern thought?
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What is a common practice regarding name usage among Westerners when addressing superiors?
What is a common practice regarding name usage among Westerners when addressing superiors?
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What is a common misconception about Western individualism?
What is a common misconception about Western individualism?
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How does Buddhism conceptualize the self?
How does Buddhism conceptualize the self?
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What role does social media play in the perceptions between Western and Asian cultures?
What role does social media play in the perceptions between Western and Asian cultures?
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What is the essence of the Eastern world view?
What is the essence of the Eastern world view?
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How do Eastern philosophies mainly view conflict and harmony?
How do Eastern philosophies mainly view conflict and harmony?
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In Confucianism, the ethical conduct is based primarily on what?
In Confucianism, the ethical conduct is based primarily on what?
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What does Taoism emphasize regarding the concept of Tao?
What does Taoism emphasize regarding the concept of Tao?
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What factors might contribute to the differences and similarities between Filipinos and their Asian neighbors?
What factors might contribute to the differences and similarities between Filipinos and their Asian neighbors?
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What do the concepts of yin and yang represent in Eastern philosophy?
What do the concepts of yin and yang represent in Eastern philosophy?
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What aspect of existence does the Marxist view of history emphasize?
What aspect of existence does the Marxist view of history emphasize?
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What is a defining characteristic of Eastern philosophies compared to Western philosophies?
What is a defining characteristic of Eastern philosophies compared to Western philosophies?
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Study Notes
Lesson 4 - The Self in Western and Eastern Thoughts
- The lesson aims to differentiate the concept of self in Western and Eastern/Oriental perspectives, explain the concept of self in Asian thought, and create a representation of the Filipino self.
Four Major Differences Between Eastern and Western Philosophies
- Western Individualism and Eastern Collectivism: Western thought emphasizes individualism, particularly in Greco-Roman tradition, exemplified by the image of Prometheus who fought for individual freedom.
- Western thought's focus on the individual: The Christian tradition reinforces the concept of individual rights, referencing Genesis 1:26, where God grants humans dominion over the earth.
- Fragmentary and Holistic: Western thought, according to Fritjof Capra, is characterized by rational thought epitomized by Descartes' "Cognito, ergo sum" – I think, therefore, I exist. Eastern thought emphasizes the interconnectedness and unity of all things.
- Conflict and Harmony: Western philosophy often depicts a conflict between opposing forces, like good and evil, God and Satan. Eastern thought, like in Taoism (yin and yang), views conflict as a dynamic balance of opposing forces.
Eastern Thoughts of Self
- Confucianism: This philosophy views the self through a code of ethical conduct emphasizing proper social interactions.
- Taoism: Taoism emphasizes living in harmony with the universe, rejecting a singular definition of the Tao, emphasizing flowing, relative, and paradoxical realities.
- Buddhism: Buddhism views the self as an illusion, stemming from ignorance, and the source of suffering. The quest is to detach from self and cravings.
Western Thoughts of Self
- Western perspective recognizes environment and society’s role in self-formation but always focuses on the individual.
- Western thought sees the world in dualities, distinguishing the creator from the created.
Differences of Western and Eastern Thoughts
- Self Description: Westerners emphasize personal attributes, while Asians emphasize social roles and situations.
- Self Evaluation: Westerners tend to highlight achievements, whereas Asians often prefer to keep a low profile to avoid boastfulness.
- Culture: Western culture is individualistic, focusing on the individual; Eastern culture is collectivistic, prioritizing group and social relations.
- Competition: Competition is central to Western thought. Eastern thought often emphasizes cooperation and harmony.
As for the Philippines
- Filipino experience is influenced by colonization and diverse regional variations.
- Variations across provinces, social media, and intermarriages might blur or highlight cultural differences with Asian neighbors.
- Understanding these diverse influences is crucial for comprehending the Filipino self.
Hierarchy in Thoughts
- Eastern cultures generally emphasize hierarchy and harmony.
- Westerners often address senior figures by their first names.
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Description
This quiz explores the concept of self as understood in both Western and Eastern philosophies. It highlights major differences, such as individualism versus collectivism and the rational versus holistic approaches to understanding the self. Additionally, it offers insights into the Filipino self within these overarching themes.
