social self in Zen and American pragmatism, The
Book Description
In this scholarly exploration, Steve Odin examines a profound transformation in how we understand the nature of selfhood across two influential philosophical traditions. Rather than viewing the self as a solitary, independent entity, both modern Japanese philosophy and American pragmatism have evolved toward recognizing the self as fundamentally relational and socially constructed.
Odin demonstrates how this shift moves beyond the traditional concept of an isolated "I" toward understanding identity as emerging through dynamic relationships and ongoing dialogue between individuals and their communities. This relational view of selfhood becomes the foundation for how aesthetic, moral, and religious values develop through communicative interaction rather than individual contemplation alone.
The work goes beyond simple comparison to critically analyze the tensions that arise when these two philosophical approaches encounter fundamental questions about human nature and society. Odin explores how these traditions grapple with competing values: the balance between individual autonomy and collective responsibility, questions of human freedom versus social conditioning, and the ongoing debate between liberal individualism and communitarian ideals.
For readers interested in understanding how Eastern and Western thought converge and diverge on questions of identity and social connection, this comprehensive study offers insights into how our sense of self emerges through relationship rather than isolation. The book provides a thoughtful examination of how philosophical understanding of selfhood continues to evolve in response to modern social realities.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Long (> 400 pages) (~13 hours)
🕉️ Tradition: Buddhism
📄 Length: 482 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Practice Zen Buddhist meditation
- ✓ Explore timeless philosophical wisdom
- ✓ Understand Buddhist philosophy and practice
- ✓ Explore Selbst
- ✓ Explore Self (Philosophy)
- ✓ Explore Pragmatism
- ✓ Discover Zen principles and teachings
- ✓ Explore Japanese Philosophy
