Western philosophy entails the influence of philosophical reasoning by the western culture that originated from ancient Greece before spreading across the region. Over time, western philosophy has developed with its focus on logic, ethics and metaphysics. Through these intriguing topics, multiple societal issues such as the existence of God, influences of human behavior, and ethical values of the society have been elicited. On the other hand, the Japanese philosophy is drawn from the indigenous society of Shinto and Buddhism influence. In addition, the regional philosophy of the Chinese has some impact on Japanese philosophy. For the Japanese, society is secular but considers the need for harmony among people. As a result, Japanese philosophy is influenced by the need to create order, self-development, and harmony through social interactions. Additionally, their philosophical thinking focuses on the accomplishment of individual social obligations for the benefit of the community.
One of the main ideas accepted by modern western philosophical thinkers is the existence of the transcendent God. In this case, most philosophers attempt to prove the manner in which the supernatural being exists, and how he influences the existence of humanity. Since God is supernatural, there is a belief that he influences everything that takes place within the globe. For instance, God influences the manner in which people relate with one another. This implies that through the respect and adoration given to God, people’s virtues, ethics, and metaphysics can be regulated and harmonized. Contrary to this idea, the Japanese base their philosophical thinking on a secular society. This implies that they focus on the need of defining human nature and behavior with regard to the fulfillment of social obligations. In this regard, ideal human nature is based on harmony and fulfillment of social roles.
The human nature of capitalism is encrusted in the philosophical thinking of the west. In this case, human nature is associated with selfishness. Therefore, the consolidation of this human behavior forms the culture of imperialism. Most modern western philosophers seek to define human nature and behavior on basis of the need to address the personal needs of humanity. Consequently, when personal interests are satisfied, human virtues and behavior are improved. Over time, this ideology has led to the emergence of capitalism. In this regard, the philosophers address the personal interests of humanity. On the other hand, the Japanese culture and tradition of socialism have influenced their philosophical thinking. The Japanese believe that the need to address social obligations and interactions affects one’s personality. Based on the urge to promote harmony and responsibility amongst the Japanese, people observe the values of ethics and duty. As a result, philosophical thinking revolves around people’s relationships and responsibilities in Japanese culture.
Ideas that the western philosophers embrace demonstrate the distinction between western and Japanese philosophy. Despite the significant influence of western philosophy on the Japanese, their presentation of philosophy since time immemorial stills prevail. Therefore, western philosophy considers the existence of God and capitalism as the main influences on human nature. This is contrary to the belief that socialism and personality are the main determinants of human nature. Nevertheless, both perspectives exhibit similarities in other aspects of fundamental philosophy. Therefore, the two types of philosophy are crucial in their regions of origin.