The Self from Various Perspectives: Western and Eastern Concept

A Filipino student studying in the U.S. struggles to balance his family's expectations with the individualistic culture he is immersed in. His dilemma best reflects:

• Cultural relativism

• The private vs. collective self

• The materialistic self

• Confucian hierarchy

Which of the following best explains the Western view of self according to Descartes?

• The self is an illusion, shaped by experience

• The self is independent of external reality

• The self is defined by social interactions

• The self is constantly changing and impermanent

A student argues that individual success is more important than group harmony because personal achievement benefits society in the long run. This belief is most aligned with:

• Western individualism

• Confucianism

• Taoism

• Islamic collectivism

Which of the following statements contradicts the Buddhist view of self?

• The self is an ever-changing process

• The self is an illusion

• The self can achieve eternal perfection

• The self is shaped by karma

In Hinduism, achieving moksha (liberation) involves realizing that:

• One's self is completely separate from others

• The self and Brahman are ultimately one

• The self is permanent and unchanging

• The self must dominate others to gain power

A person believes that morality is not innate, but rather something developed through social roles and relationships. This aligns most with:

• Confucianism

• Hinduism

• Taoism

• Islamic thought

A Western-trained psychologist argues that Filipino values like utang na loob (debt of gratitude) hinder self-actualization. This perspective assumes:

• Self-concept is shaped by karma

• Individualism is superior to collectivism

• The self exists independently of cultural influences

• All cultures develop identical views of the self

If a student adopts a strictly materialistic view of the self, he is most likely to:

• Prioritize religious beliefs in defining his identity

• Reject supernatural explanations for human behavior

• Emphasize selflessness and detachment from worldly things

• Believe the self is entirely a product of group interactions

Which philosophical system rejects hierarchical views of self and society, promoting balance with nature?

• Taoism

• Confucianism

• Hinduism

• Western Rationalism

A person believes that he has complete control over his destiny, independent of divine intervention. This aligns with:

• The Islamic view of Nafs

• Hindu concepts of karma

• Western rationalism

• Confucian moral development