Question

How does Buddha's theory of the self differ from the one advanced by Plato?

Answer 1

Hi !

Answer:

Buddha : The concept of anatta (no-self) in Buddhism encourages a sense of interconnectedness and compassion for all living beings, as there is no inherent separation between oneself and others.

Plato : Plato's theory of the soul being eternal and having knowledge of pure forms influences his views on ethics and governance, advocating for rule by philosopher-kings who possess wisdom and knowledge of the forms.

while both Buddha and Plato explored the nature of the self and the ultimate reality, their theories diverge significantly. Buddha's theory emphasizes impermanence, interconnectedness, and the non-existence of a permanent self, while Plato's theory upholds the existence of an eternal, unchanging soul that possesses knowledge of pure forms. These differences reflect the diverse philosophical perspectives and cultural contexts in which their teachings emerged.

SOURCE : IA

Answer 2

Here is a comparison of Buddha's and Plato's theories on the concept of self:

Buddha's Theory of No-Self:

- Buddha taught that there is no unchanging, permanent self (no atman). He proposed the doctrine of anatta - no-self, asserting that the idea of a constant, singular self is an illusion.

- According to Buddha, what we perceive as self is just a bundle of elements and experiences that are in constant flux. There is no enduring, substantive essence of self.

- He considered belief in a permanent self as a source of suffering. Liberation comes from realizing the impermanence of one's existence.

- The self is a process rather than a fixed structure. There is no underlying substance that connects experiences.

Plato's Theory of the Immortal Soul:

- Plato believed that the self is the immortal soul, created by the Demiurge. The soul exists before birth and after death.

- The soul is unchanging and eternal. While the body perishes, the soul remains constant over time.

- Plato saw the soul as having three parts - reason, spirit, and appetite. But the soul itself retains its identity despite the tensions between these parts.

- Knowledge is innate to the eternal soul. The soul recalls ideas from previous existence through the process of anamnesis or recollection.

- For Plato, the soul is the true self. The body is just a temporary vessel during one's time on earth.

So in summary, Buddha denied the existence of a permanent self, while Plato saw an eternal, unchanging soul as the essence of the self. The self is ephemeral according to Buddha, but immortal according to Plato.