1.1: Introduction to South and East Asian Philosophy

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It is nearly impossible to separate the various Asian Philosophies from their associated religions, but it is very important to recognize that the religions that are practiced that share a name with an associated philosophy are often quite different. Indeed, the foundations of the religious practices bear resemblances to the underlying philosophy, but it would be folly and misleading to think that, for example, modern practitioners of the Taoist religion are entirely in line with the philosophical works (Tao Te Ching and Chuang-Tze) at the core of the Taoism’s establishment. The readings contained herein are thus to be analyzed and considered as philosophical works detached from any particular religious practices or organizations. These readings can stand on their own to present their ideas, and while knowledge of the associated religions can aid in appreciating and understanding these readings, it is not required, and such knowledge could even provide one with problematic predispositions that prevents one from appreciating these works in an appropriately neutral philosophical fashion.