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I am thoroughly interested in both matters as essentials to the betterment of myself, and I need some outside perspective and suggestions on the possible connections between both matters.

asked Jan 22 '12 at 11:02

ArtScience's gravatar image

ArtScience
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edited Jan 22 '12 at 13:02

Greg%20Perkins's gravatar image

Greg Perkins ♦♦
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It would seem that one has to compare fundamental principles before comparing others. It may be that both Objectivism and Buddhism view e.g. stealing as wrong, but the reasons why, and the ends to be achieved by not stealing are completely different. Would you still call that a "conciding" principle?

(Jan 22 '12 at 12:18) FCH FCH's gravatar image

When comparing philosophical systems, I often refer back to the structure Ayn Rand used in her "standing on one foot" explanation of the essence of her philosophy. The four domains of philosophy she used (along with the 'introductory-phrase' I use to explain them to people) are:

  1. Metaphysics - "What is the nature of the universe?"
  2. Epistemology - "How do I know what I know?"
  3. Ethics - "How should I behave?"
  4. Politics - "How should groups behave?"

For Objectivisim, her answers are:

  1. Objective Reality ("Nature, to be commanded, must be obeyed.")
  2. Reason ("Wishing won't make it so.")
  3. Self-interest ("Man is an end in himself.")
  4. Capitalism ("Give me liberty or give me death.")

From what I've read, I'd venture a Zen Buddhist might answer something along the lines of:

  1. Polarities ("Koans"; "Form is emptiness, emptiness is form.")
  2. Mystic Enlightenment ("Bodhi" - direct transmission of insight.)
  3. Deontological ("Dharma" - duty)
  4. Collectivism ("Sangha" - group or community)

Please correct me if I get the above wrong, I'm not overly familiar with the details of Zen-Buddhism.

Overall, I don't see much overlap at all between these two systems.

answered Jan 22 '12 at 12:07

Jason%20Gibson's gravatar image

Jason Gibson ♦
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Asked: Jan 22 '12 at 11:02

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Last updated: Jan 22 '12 at 13:02