what are the major difference between eastern and western philosophy ?

Question

Philosophy is is big subject, but I want to understand what sets the east and west apart in terms of philosophy ?

Answer 1

They are totally different from each other. Western philosophy is the journey outside your body and soul but Indian Philosophy is the journey towards your inner self. Western philosophy finds its solution outside them self and Indian philosopher seek the question of their answers in their soul. You will find every Indian philosopher is a saint but i don't think any western philosopher is a saint. western philosophy is based on logic and Indian philosophy is based on experience.

Answer 2

I'd say there are two main differences: 1. Eastern philosophies tend to see the world as moving through a cycle: example: Spring to Summer, to Fall, to Winter, and repeating in an endless loop. In contrast, the Western view takes the approach that all things are new and ever changing and that cycles, though they are apparent, are of less importance. 2. The Eastern mind is more inner-directed and concerned with perfection of self (esoteric). The Western mind, in contrast, takes the exoteric approach; looking at the world and finding one's place within it, rather than seeking enlightenment as an internal process.

Answer 3

I think the best way to sum it up is that Western Philosophies tend to center on material things, and that which can be observed, handled, tested empirically. Eastern Philosophies tend to be based in an understanding that there is a spirit type part of humanity - termed soul, spirit, chi (qi), energy variously - which cannot be seen.

Answer 4

I don't kwo what you are refering to in terms of "Easter Philosophy". So what I can say is what makes western unique: greek philosophy invented rational thought which much much later led to science. This legacy from our ancestors gave us the tools to dominate the world. But many eastern philosophies have a lot to offer, things that we do not have in our western philosophy: the power of meditation, the power of concentration, a certain spirituality which makes us stronger, happier and more able to face the challenges of life.

Answer 5

Philosophy is the same. The difference is between persons.

Answer 6

west v/s east is not the right way to differentiate.

You have the following philosophies
1. Christian
2. Islamic
3. Hindism
4. Buddhism

The following the major features I would say.

1. Christianity : It wants everybody to follow christianity. Believes in equality of men and women. They were generally agressive to spread the religion.

2. Islam : It also wants everybody to follow islam. Does not believe in equality of men and women. Does not accept other religions at any cost. Most aggressive and spreads intolerance.

3. Hinduism: Does not want everybody to follow it. Believes in peace. But internally creates castes and discriminates people.

4. Buddhism: Preaches non-violence. Probably the best religion to cure current problems in the world.

Answer 7

Eastern philosophy is more intellectual and mystical in nature, focus on what is for the good of the community, rather than the individual. Western philosophy is more regulated by Judeo-Christian based laws, with focus on what is good for the individual rather than the community.

Western philosophy challenges you to look out for yourself, and outside yourself when looking for possible solutions to problems and issues. Eastern phiolosophy challenges you to look INTO yourself for possible solutions to problems and issues.

Answer 8

easterners have past karma where as westerners dont believe in karmas.

Answer 9

I am no expert but I see it this way :
EAST - makes you submissive
WEST - makes you fight for more and more