[PREP Book Review] There is no such thing as 'self'. Eastern Philosophy as Liberal Arts [Shinmei P]
If you want to enjoy the world of reading more but don't know what to read, I offer you this 'PREP Book Review'.
In this project, I aim to introduce the summaries and key points of books that I have read and learned from in an easy-to-understand way, helping you with your own reading and writing for notes or blogs.
Specifically, I will use the PREP method (Point, Reason, Example, Point) to clearly convey the appeal of the books.
The book I am introducing this time is 'There is no such thing as self. Eastern Philosophy as Liberal Arts' by Shinmei P ↓.
Point: Eastern philosophy is the key to changing your life
It has the power to reduce the difficulty of living and change your perspective
Shinmei P's 'There is no such thing as self. Eastern Philosophy as Liberal Arts' is a book that gives us hints to escape from the difficulties of living and the maze of self-discovery that we usually face.
Eastern philosophy may seem difficult at first glance, but this book introduces its teachings in a modern and humorous style (too humorous), allowing you to gain wisdom that can be applied to everyday life.
In particular, the appeal of this book is that by adopting the perspective that 'there is no self' in response to the question 'What is the self?', you can get a sense of being liberated from daily worries and suffering.
Reason: The transformation of perspective brought about by Eastern philosophy
Concepts such as 'non-self' and 'emptiness' dismantle stereotypes
What this book explains clearly are the core concepts of Eastern philosophy such as 'non-self', 'emptiness', and 'Tao'.
By learning these Eastern philosophical perspectives, our view of the 'self' and 'society' that we usually take for granted changes dramatically.
For example, the 'non-self' taught by the Buddha is the teaching that the existence of the self is not fixed, but is constantly changing.
By incorporating this way of thinking, stress in work and human relationships may be released from the assumption that 'I must be this way'.
Example: Philosophy applied to Famichiki and matchmaking
Abundant with accessible and practical examples for daily life
In this book, complex philosophical concepts are explained through humorous and relatable analogies.
For example, when explaining 'Anatta' (non-self), the author uses Famichiki (convenience store chicken) to show how we are constantly connected to others through the food we eat.
Additionally, in the chapter applying Laozi's 'Tao' to modern matchmaking and job hunting, the author explains with a lighthearted tone how important it is to be natural in human relationships.
These concrete examples allow us to intuitively understand how we can apply philosophy to our daily lives.
Point (Reiteration): Make life easier with Eastern philosophy
To reduce daily suffering and gain a new perspective
Shinmei P's 'There Is No Such Thing as Self: Eastern Philosophy as Liberal Arts' is a wonderful book that helps reduce the various worries and anxieties we face while providing a new perspective.
The teachings of Eastern philosophy offer hints for living simply and happily in today's complex society.
That said, Eastern philosophy can still feel intimidating.
However, thanks to Shinmei P's lighthearted tone, this book serves as an excellent introduction to a subject often considered difficult to approach.
Kyu's Bookshelf: For those further interested in this book
If you have read this article and are further interested in 'There Is No Such Thing as Self: Eastern Philosophy as Liberal Arts,' please pick up a copy at your local bookstore or online store. It will surely deepen your understanding even further.
Furthermore, you can enjoy it on Audible by purchasing it or by signing up for the unlimited listening service. Please give it a try!