From the tranquillity of Zen gardens to the serenity that yoga brings, Eastern philosophies have subtly intermingled with our Western culture, influencing aspects of life one would not expect at first glance. More than just practices, these philosophies have shifted our understanding of life and reality, offering a different lens through which we view our world. This article will delve into the profound impact of Eastern philosophy on Western thought, demonstrating how these perspectives born of the East have played a crucial role in moulding our modern world of ideas(1).

To appreciate the extent of Eastern philosophy’s influence, one must venture back thousands of years to times when nascent, yet profound, ways of thought were sprouting in the fertile grounds of the East. Heralding from this period were three significant philosophies – Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Founded between the 6th to 5th centuries BC, these thought systems emanated from India and China, setting up enduring waves of influence that would reach Western shores centuries later(2).

Rich with teachings of moderation, harmony, and holistic wellbeing, these philosophies serve as the backbone of Eastern thought. Confucianism emphasises familial, societal, and governmental harmony through moral and ethical conduct. Taoism, on the other hand, promotes unity with nature, espousing the concept of flowing with life’s natural currents. Buddhism, with its teachings of impermanence, suffering, and the pursuit of enlightenment, offers a contemplative approach to understanding our conscious experiences(3).

The integration of these Eastern philosophies into Western thought has occurred on various fronts. The first distinct interface, perhaps, established during the era of Enlightenment thinkers, who began to question the status quo of divine authority and absolute monarchies(4). A newfound interest in discovering alternative ways of viewing the world cultivated the soil for Eastern thoughts to begin thriving in. Notably, the philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer drew extensively from Buddhism and Hinduism—pioneering the inclusion of Eastern philosophies in popular Western discourse. He stoutly believed that our world was driven by an irrational force—’will’—echoing Buddhism’s teachings about pervasive suffering caused by desire(5).

Eastern philosophies found fertile ground in Western psychology as well. Carl Jung, a pivotal figure in this domain, had discrete interactions with Eastern thought. His concept of ‘individuation’ remarkably mirrors the idea of enlightenment in Buddhism, emphasising the integration of the conscious and unconscious mind(6). His sentiments towards Eastern philosophy were succinctly expressed in the statement, “The East teaches us another, broader, more profound, and higher understanding—understanding through life”(7).

In our age, the digital revolution has whipped up fresh opportunities for Eastern thoughts to disseminate and take root in Western minds. Social networking platforms are flooded with Zen quotes, Taoist-inspired digital art, and Buddha-based teaching podcasts. Terms like ‘mindfulness’ and ‘meditation’—albeit rooted in Buddhism—are now common parlance in psychotherapy(8).

Analysis of the evidence suggests that Eastern philosophies have crucially refocussed attention on subjective wellbeing and harmony with nature. These philosophies arguably temper the compulsion in Western thought towards dualistic either-or thinking, promoting instead a both-and perspective that appreciates the multifaceted nature of life.

Simultaneously, it invites the question—what could be next? Dr. Michael Puett, a professor of Chinese History at Harvard University, suggests that there’s much more that Western societies could glean from the ancient texts of Confucianism, Taoism, and others, and that the absorption of their teachings could reinvent our notions of individualism, societal norms and ethics(9).

In sum, it is undeniable that Eastern philosophy has left a meaningful imprint on the Western intellectual landscape, changing the way we think, live, and perceive our realities. By advocating a more holistic approach to life, these philosophies have ceaselessly nudged Western thought towards a more balanced, interconnected understanding of human existence. Perhaps in time, Western societies will continue to embrace these Eastern treasures with increased enthusiasm, striding ever closer towards an amalgamation of the two worlds of thought that offers the best of both. Perhaps, instead of limiting ourselves to existing boundaries, we should introspect: Are we ready for a post-East-West philosophy era?

References and Further Reading:

1. Clarke, J.J. (1997). Oriental Enlightenment: The Encounter between Asian and Western Thought. London: Routledge.
2. Park, J.K. (2019). The Influence of Eastern Philosophies such as Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism on East Asian societies. The Asian Conference on Ethics, Religion & Philosophy.
3. McLeod, S. (2018). Carl Jung. Simply Psychology.
4. Clarke, J.J. (1998). Eastern Enlightenment and Western Knowledge: Authority, Authentication and the Influence of Asia upon the West. European Review.
5. Chai, D. (2015). Dao Companion to Daoist Philosophy. Springer.
6. Szczepanski, K. (2019). The Three Teachings: Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism. ThoughtCo.
7. Jung, C.G. (1963). Memories, Dreams, Reflections. Vintage.
8. Harrington, A., and Dunne, J.D. (2015). When mindfulness is therapy: Ethical qualms, historical perspectives. American Psychologist.
9. Puett, M., and Gross-Loh, C. (2014). The Path: What Chinese Philosophers Can Teach Us About the Good Life. Simon & Schuster.