In part (i), you should interact with the different Sages and their views. That is, when offering your answers to the fundamental questions, compare and/or contrast your views with some of the Sages. When you provide your own answers, you do not need to quote from a source but you can if you like (e.g., a Muslim student might quote the Koran, another student may not quote anything at all). However, you should quote from the different sages from the class in order to explain some of your agreements or disagreements with their views.

QUESTION

You are to provide (i) a description of your own answers to any 6 (out of 8) of the fundamental questions and (ii) at least one critique of your own worldview, preferably using the criteria for worldview analysis (explanatory scope, coherence, etc).

In part (i), you should interact with the different Sages and their views. That is, when offering your answers to the fundamental questions, compare and/or contrast your views with some of the Sages. When you provide your own answers, you do not need to quote from a source but you can if you like (e.g., a Muslim student might quote the Koran, another student may not quote anything at all). However, you should quote from the different sages from the class in order to explain some of your agreements or disagreements with their views. So, if you were addressing the FQ on condition and the soul, one might say, ‘I disagree with Socrates who holds that we each have individual, immortal souls (The Defence 455c) but I do agree with the Buddha who denied that we have any sort of soul (The Dhammapada 455). A good paper will: (a) provide 1 or 2 comparisons/contrasts in each fundamental question. For example, you might write on Origin that you hold to an ex nihilo creation by God and this is in contrast to Krishna who held to …., as the Bhagavad Gita says in….. A good paper will also (b) interact at least once with all four sages covered in the class. (c) always keep the ‘why’ question in mind. Why do you hold to this answer about Origins?, and why do you agree or disagree with the Buddha?, etc.

All other requirements are the same as the Socrates and Krishna papers. 1500 but i can write the intro and conclusion and i have also attached the fundamental questions and worldview tests needed to complete the paper.

ANSWER

Exploring Fundamental Questions: A Dialogue between Perspectives

Introduction

In this essay, we will delve into six fundamental questions that shape our worldview and engage in a thoughtful dialogue with various perspectives, including those of Socrates, Buddha, Krishna, and Confucius. By contrasting and comparing these views, we will critically analyze my own beliefs, highlighting both agreements and disagreements. The examination of explanatory scope, coherence, and other criteria for worldview analysis will allow for a more comprehensive understanding of my own worldview, while also acknowledging its limitations.

Origin

Regarding the question of origin, I posit that the universe was brought into existence ex nihilo by a transcendent deity. This belief aligns with many religious traditions, including the Abrahamic faiths. In contrast, Krishna’s view, as presented in the Bhagavad Gita, suggests a cyclical cosmology wherein creation emerges from a divine source repeatedly. While I appreciate the concept of cyclical patterns in nature, I find the notion of a singular, intentional act of creation more compelling due to its explanatory scope and coherence.

Identity

Regarding identity, I align more closely with Socrates’ understanding. I believe that individuals possess a distinct essence, including an immortal soul that continues to exist beyond bodily death. This perspective is in contrast to the Buddha’s teachings, which deny the existence of a permanent self. While I respect the Buddha’s emphasis on impermanence and interconnectedness, I find Socrates’ concept of the soul as a source of personal identity more comprehensive and resonant with my experiences.

Meaning

In terms of meaning, I lean toward Confucius’ perspective, which emphasizes the significance of ethical living and harmonious relationships. The pursuit of virtue and contributing to the betterment of society provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment (Confucianism, n.d.). However, I acknowledge the validity of Socrates’ focus on self-examination and philosophical inquiry as a means to discover personal meaning. By integrating both perspectives, one can cultivate individual growth while also promoting communal well-being.

Morality

Regarding morality, I find common ground with both Socrates and Buddha. Socrates argues for the existence of objective moral truths that can be discovered through reason and dialogue. I resonate with this view, as I believe in the existence of universal ethical principles that guide our actions. Additionally, the Buddha’s teachings on compassion, mindfulness, and the Eightfold Path offer valuable insights into cultivating virtuous conduct. By embracing a combination of reasoned inquiry and compassionate practice, one can navigate the complexities of moral decision-making.

Knowledge

In the realm of knowledge, I find myself aligned with Socrates’ approach. He emphasized the pursuit of wisdom through critical examination and dialogue. By questioning assumptions, exploring diverse perspectives, and engaging in a lifelong quest for knowledge, one can gradually attain a more comprehensive understanding of reality (Multiple Choice Quiz, n.d.). Although Krishna’s teachings in the Bhagavad Gita emphasize the importance of devotion and divine revelation, I find Socrates’ commitment to rational inquiry and intellectual growth more compelling in expanding our knowledge.

Destiny

Regarding destiny, I am inclined towards Krishna’s viewpoint as depicted in the Bhagavad Gita. Krishna speaks of the eternal soul’s cyclical journey through various lifetimes, guided by the principle of karma. This resonates with my belief in the interconnectedness of actions and their consequences, allowing for personal growth and spiritual evolution over multiple incarnations. While I appreciate Socrates’ emphasis on moral accountability and the examination of one’s life, Krishna’s perspective provides a broader framework that encompasses the transcendent nature of existence.

Critique of my Worldview

While my worldview incorporates elements from various philosophical and religious perspectives, it is not without its limitations. One critique of my worldview is its reliance on faith and metaphysical assumptions. For instance, my belief in a transcendent deity as the originator of the universe is not empirically verifiable and rests on a foundation of faith. This lack of empirical evidence can undermine the explanatory scope and coherence of my worldview when scrutinized under a strictly rational lens.

Furthermore, the coexistence of contrasting perspectives within my worldview may present challenges in maintaining internal consistency (Gray, 2014). Balancing the emphasis on reason, ethical living, and spiritual dimensions requires careful navigation to avoid potential contradictions. A more rigorous examination of these tensions could enhance the coherence of my worldview and address potential criticisms of inconsistency.

Conclusion

Engaging with the perspectives of Socrates, Buddha, Krishna, and Confucius has enriched my understanding of fundamental questions and expanded my worldview. By critically analyzing and comparing these views, I have identified areas of agreement and disagreement, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of my own beliefs. While my worldview demonstrates explanatory scope and coherence in many aspects, it is essential to acknowledge its limitations, such as its reliance on faith and the need for further exploration of potential inconsistencies.

References

Confucianism. (n.d.). https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/confucianism/

Gray, M. (2014). Practising values in social work. Newcastle-au. https://www.academia.edu/2781018/Practising_values_in_social_work 

Multiple Choice Quiz. (n.d.). https://global.oup.com/us/companion.websites/9780199765225/student/chapter1/quizzes/mcquiz/