Revolutionary Ethical Philosophies

In many ways, Buddhism, Confucianism, Christianity and the Socratic method all share

common roots in humanism, and a general dissatisfaction with the religion or philosophy that came

before them. They all are revolutionary evolutions of the previous way of thought, applying new

meanings for traditional concepts.

All four are humanist ethical traditions, in the sense that they allow “salvation” to be

available to everyone, through one's own effort. In the Socratic dialogue, all that is required to achieve

the ideal state of being, of “living the Truth”, is to apply logic to everything. Thinking things through,

and to admitting that you are not wise is key to this philosophy. In Buddhism, one needs to recognize

that the root of suffering is attachment to the world. Living well is achieved by following the Eightfold

Path. The first two Buddhist practices are based on wisdom: right view, which produces right

knowledge, and right intention, which in turn produces right liberation. The next goals are based on

ethical conduct, specifically right speech, right action, and right livelyhood. The final three goals have

to do with concentration through right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. The Christian

path to salvation is even simpler: following the ten commandments, and accepting Christ as your

savior. The goal of Confucianism is not salvation, but instead social harmony. Like the others,

this is achieved by accepting certain principles, and becoming a “perfect man”; namely by the

understanding and practice of filial piety, loyalty, and humanity.

Also, in all of these philosophies, perception is key.

The Dhammapada, a Buddhist text states:

“Preceded by perception are mental states,

For them is perception supreme,

From perception have they sprung.

If, with perception polluted, one speaks or acts,

Thence suffering follows as a wheel the draught ox's foot.

Preceded by perception are mental states,

For them is perception supreme,

From perception have they sprung.

If, with tranquil perception, one speaks or acts,

Thence ease follows as a shadow that never departs.”

Similarly, Jesus says, in Matthew 7:3-5: “Why do you look at the splinter in your brother's eye

and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the

splinter out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take

the plank out of your own eye, then you will see clearly to remove the splinter from your brother's

eye”. Although Christianity is the most dogmatic of the four belief systems, it is also concerned with

perception, specifically the Gnostic sect. This is considered by some to be the original form of

Christianity. The Gnostics believed that one could not come to know the nature of God through

external means, but instead only through contemplation and intuition.

Obviously, Socrates was very concerned with perception as well, developing the Socratic

method as a way to challenge preconceived assumptions about a topic. This was done by employing

two speakers at any one time, one leading the discussion and the other critiquing specific assumptions

put forward for his acceptance or rejection. A series of questions regarding a central issue are asked,

and the questions this question raises are answered in turn. This involves the defense of one point of

view against another and is oppositional. The best way to define the “Truth” of your own perception is

to make the opponent contradict themselves in some way that proves the inquirer's own point.

Confucianism's focus on learning is also intended to refine perception. He is quoted as saying,

"I have been the whole day without eating, and the whole night without

sleeping вЂ" occupied with thinking. It was of no use. The better plan is to learn."

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