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Eastern Philosophy vs. Western Philosophy
When discussing the concept of Eastern Philosophy, one of the most notable symbols to analyze is that of Yin and Yang. Many people think of Yin and Yang (associated in both Dualism and Taoism) as "good and evil" or "light and day" however, the meaning is more complementary rather than opposing. The concept of Yin and Yang is more about finding one's center of balance by weighing his/her problems with successes. The Eastern mind is less enthused by wealth that is made but rather finding harmony in life. Above all, a sense of community betterment and growing together is much more prevalent over than individual achievement. Spiritually, Eastern Philosophy is rooted in the idea of immortality or reincarnating in the next life. That is, until one reaches Nirvana (which is also taught in some Hindu and Buddhism).
Western roots can go back as far as ancient Greece. The Western mind may not see community the same way Eastern-minded people do. Instead, the Western mind would focus on individual responsibility to better communities. This is also why individuals of a Western society are more interested in achieving personal wealth and prosperity. Only if each individual plays their role, a community will prosper. Because of Western Philosophy, we have seen incredible advancements in mathematics, science, and technology. Western traditions are also rooted in Judeo-Christianity (as stated before). This means that there is a beginning and an end to life before going into one's afterlife.
Note: I understand that not everyone identifies as either of these Philosophies; however, both Taoism and Judeo-Christianity make up the generalized traditions of both East and West. Also, just because you live on one side of the hemisphere, does not necessarily mean you have to identify with that specific ideology. This was simply a general overview, so of course I did not go fully in-depth. That would be much more technical than a blog post should be. This is part of a Philosophy blog that I am interested in pursuing.
Sources and additional information:
http://www.differencebetween.net/science/differences-between-eastern-and-western-philosophy/
https://castle.eiu.edu/studiesonasia/documents/seriesI/Vol%204%201964/s1_v4_1963King.pdf
https://www.philosophybasics.com/general_western.html
Comments
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Mya
i definitely identify with eastern philosophies as i find them much more comforting and liberating; they also have changed my perspective on life a lot. for example i don’t see humanity as straightforward anymore, we have more potential than we realise everyday and have to work to unlock that
Tuesday
I find myself wondering if the West was really right in its pursuit of liberal ideals. I feel we have glorified freedom too much, failing to see how freedom of choice brings the freedom to make bad decisions.
At the same time, (relatively) new authoritarian ideals are also failures in their own right: the communists and the anarchists misunderstand human nature, the socialists/fascists misunderstand why liberalism came to be. Aside from liberalism (or how it's been doing so far), feudalism is effectively the only system we know that 'works' (the term being used lightly).
Really, this is the stuff that keeps me up at night.
You bring up some good points. Have there truly ever been successful governments or ways of running governments? We have seen many nations crumble under their own weight such as the USSR, for example. Is it appropriate to find a societal balance or should we focus on ourselves? These are certainly fascinating questions that challenge the consensus of like-minded thinkers. It keeps me up sometimes as well; however, this is also one of the most intriguing parts of Philosophy that keeps me interested. Thank you for the feedback!!!!
by Joey E; ; Report
Question all hegemonies. We have no proof that free marriages are happier than arranged ones. We have no evidence to show that everyone deserves a vote.
by Tuesday; ; Report