India and China, despite the painful memories of the War of 1962, remain mysterious countries for many in India. We recognize that India used to have cultural and philosophical connections with China. However, at present, we are flooded with affordable yet high-quality Chinese products.
The book "Comparative Philosophy" written by Prof P.T. Raju delves into the exploration of Chinese philosophy, its progression, and the impact of Buddhism in China. This article is derived from the aforementioned book and offers significant perspectives on historical and philosophical advancements. For further comprehension, please consult these notes.
The general characteristics of Chinese philosophy (CP) include:
Chinese Philosophy upholds a equilibrium between internal and external viewpoints, with a focus on human society rather than excessive contemplation of ultimate issues. Chinese thought values humanity and is dedicate
...d to the welfare of individuals. While Confucianism highlights the significance of humans in society, Taoism emphasizes individual existence, albeit somewhat diminishing material possessions. In general, Chinese Philosophy tends to adopt an outward-looking perspective, particularly when considering Confucianism as representative of common Chinese beliefs.
2. The investigation of the fundamental essence of Tao was limited and primarily centered on Human Nature. There was insufficient comprehensive exploration into the mind, only revealing positive emotions and sentiments that enhance a contented social existence. These characteristics are present in all societies and not confined to China alone. Hence, Chinese Philosophy can be regarded as somewhat shallow and lacking a methodical methodology.
3. Chinese Philosophy has made a unique global contribution by emphasizing ethics and metaphysics based on human emotion rather than reason, a perspective not found in Indian or Western
philosophy.
Chinese Philosophy focuses on the present life of individuals rather than their past or future existence like Indian philosophy. If a belief system contributes to the development of a prosperous society, it is embraced; otherwise, it is rejected. The Chinese people opted for Communism with the hope of enhancing their standard of living. When this goal was not accomplished, they embraced the capitalist model, which has proven to be successful.
Chinese Philosophy prioritizes the Good over the Beautiful and places less emphasis on the Truth compared to the Beautiful. It aims to discover the Good through interpersonal interactions rather than connecting with God. Rather than attempting to manipulate nature, it highlights self-control towards others as a means of uncovering the Good.
Chinese mysticism, influenced by Taoism and Buddhism, diverges from Indian mysticism in its emphasis on human nature and strong connection to Chinese philosophy throughout history.
7. China lacks a sophisticated materialistic philosophy. While the early Taoists and later Confucians focused on elevating human nature to the Tao or material Tao respectively, they were only interested in human nature and not spiritual or material nature. This holds an important lesson for Indians as we were too preoccupied with the realization of Atman, neglecting the welfare of mankind, the establishment of a strong state and society, and political thought.
8. Due to the innate alignment between human nature and natural order, China did not perceive a necessity to establish a methodology for comprehending nature. The existence of individuals exemplifying good nature obviated the need for its formal study and observation. Consequently, China did not cultivate systems of logic
and epistemology, as these concerns arise only in pursuit of further understanding. Chinese civilization did not prioritize exploration or introspection, thereby diminishing the incentive to engage in scholarly examination.
In terms of reality and human virtues, there is a lack of systematic categorization. However, the Chinese prioritize human-heartedness as the ultimate virtue. As a result, categories are not considered important in their understanding of reality and human nature.
10. Despite developing philosophies of history and doctrines of evolution, China valued history and recognized its significance. With a keen interest in human affairs and achievements, the Chinese believed in the goal of universal peace, viewing human accomplishments as advancements towards this ideal. However, their actions contradict this belief as they strive to become a global military power, arming Pakistan extensively and supporting its nuclear program. This raises questions about their commitment to universal peace.
According to Chinese Philosophy, Man is seen as the ultimate creation. Unlike Indian philosophers who believed that only Man could achieve salvation, Chinese Philosophy regards Man as superior because he has the ability to create culture and civilization.
China's interest in humanity, culture, and civilization enabled it to establish robust social and political ideologies alongside ethical values that encourage a beneficial way of life. While Chanakya's Arthashastra offers valuable insights on foreign policy, defense, and governance, Indian rulers seldom put them into practice, with the exception of a few instances like Shivaji. Had India possessed a strategic mindset, it could have effectively fortified the Khyber Pass to become an invincible stronghold and potentially change its historical trajectory.
The concept of democracy, which can be traced
back to Confucius, served as a source of inspiration for the French Revolution, either directly or indirectly. It is also worth noting that the Chinese school of Names may have contributed to the discovery of semantics. Despite being credited with pioneering paper, printing, and gunpowder inventions ahead of others, China did not develop a systematic methodology for these innovations. Consequently, China's recognition for these accomplishments remains limited, much like Egypt's recognition for its discovery of geometry. Instead of prioritizing inventions, China placed greater importance on research in political and social thought due to its focus on humanistic interests.
Pre-communist Chinese thought, despite its deep interest in human nature, perceived man as primarily emotional and social rather than rational. The concept that the soul could be immortal, either completely or in part, was absent from Chinese beliefs. This absence is the reason for the lack of advancement in logic and epistemology in Chinese thought.
14. Chinese thought lacks a clear concept of the spirit or soul, instead referring to spirits of ancestors, water, mountain, and other entities without considering a human spirit.
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