Finding the path within the "ego tunnel": A Buddhist approach to tackling the problems of a Western self

Abstract

If many of the problems associated with a Western sense of self stem from its penchant
for distorting reality, it follows that to free ourselves from its grasp we would need to
implement an alternative way to view our experience accurately, such as that described in
the Buddhist doctrine of no-self. The dangers of becoming attached to the Western self
are outlined, as well as the means of transcending them through accurate self-assessments
gained from insights of no-self. In addition, considerable research is reviewed that
supports this idea by suggesting that Western constructs similar to no-self, like the
"quiet" ego, foster well-being and a range of other psychological benefits. Implications
for implementing a no-self approach in psychotherapy are discussed.

Date of Award	2011
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Ronan Bernas (Supervisor)