World Literature and Composition
-Sonya Cunningham-
Asian Philosophy
This unit provides an overview of the three main Asian philosophies: Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism.
Confucianism
Readings: Confucian Analects
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Humanity - focus on the other; best described as "do unto others as you would have them do unto you"
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Gentleman - focus on the self; the concept of gentleman is not birth but living an ethical life
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Ritual - observance of religious practices as well as honor of family and ancestors; these elements should be observed with thought and meaning
Taoism
Readings: from the Tao de Ching and Tao of Pooh
Key Concepts:
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aims to achieve humility, simplicity, and harmony with nature
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believes in "the unity of opposites"
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believes in not tampering with natural states, i.e. you cannot place that "square peg" in a "round hole"
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all things are constantly changing
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the universe is infinite
Buddhism
Readings: "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud," from Zen Teachings and Zen Parables
Key Concepts:
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belief in karma and reincarnation
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believed that "life was suffering," so one should to detach from earthly life and desires in order to attain enlightenment
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believed that anyone could attain the state of "Buddahood" through self-discipline, meditation, and living a life of simplicity
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believed in the Four Noble Truths: (1) suffering is a part of life, (2) the cause of suffering is desire, (3) stopping desire is the only way to stop suffering.
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The Eightfold Path, called the "Middle Way" of Buddhism. Following the Eightfold Path produces a combination of understanding, compassion, and an advanced state of consciousness.
(1) Right understanding: Realize the causes of desire.
(2) Right intentions: Recognize impure thoughts and eliminate them.
(3) Right speech: Avoid lies, exaggerations, and harsh words.
(4) Right action: Avoid stealing and sexual contact that causes hurt.
(5) Right work: A livelihood should not cause harm.
(6) Right effort: Strive to improve.
(7) Right meditation: Use meditation to focus on nature of reality.
(8) Right contemplation: Cultivate inner peace.