Absence: On the Culture and Philosophy of the Far East

The difference between Western and Far Eastern thought is that Western thinking is dominated by essence, while Far Eastern thought is centered on absence. This distinction is the difference between being and path, between dwelling and wandering. Byung-Chul Han explores these differences, highlighting the culture of absence that may be strange and unfamiliar to those in the West.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2023
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Western thinking has long been dominated by the concept of essence, with a focus on that which is self-contained and distinct from the external world. In contrast, Far Eastern thought is centered around the idea of absence. The fundamental theme of Far Eastern thinking is not being itself but rather 'the way (dao), which lacks the solidity and fixedness of essence. The distinction between essence and absence lies at the heart of the difference between being and path, between dwelling and wandering.

According to the Japanese Zen master Dōgen, a Zen monk should strive to be without a fixed abode, akin to the clouds, and without a fixed support, akin to water. This fundamental distinction between essence and absence serves as the foundation for Byung-Chul Han's exploration of the differences between Western and Far Eastern philosophy, aesthetics, architecture, and art. Through his insightful analysis, Han sheds fresh light on a culture of absence that may initially appear strange and unfamiliar to those in the West who have been deeply influenced by the preoccupation with essence for centuries.

In Western thought, essence is often associated with the idea of substance, with objects or concepts being perceived as having a fixed and unchanging nature. This perspective is reflected in the Western notion of identity, where individuals are seen as being defined by their inherent qualities or characteristics. In contrast, Far Eastern thought emphasizes the fluidity and impermanence of existence, with the emphasis being placed on the process of change and transformation rather than on fixed entities.

One of the key differences between Western and Far Eastern philosophy is the concept of emptiness (kōan). In Western philosophy, emptiness is often interpreted as a lack of substance or value, with the idea that nothing truly exists beyond the physical world. However, in Far Eastern thought, emptiness is seen as a state of openness and interconnectedness, where everything is interconnected and interdependent. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of understanding the interdependence of all phenomena.

In terms of aesthetics, Far Eastern art and architecture are characterized by a sense of simplicity and minimalism. This is in contrast to Western art and architecture, which are often characterized by complexity and ornamentation. Far Eastern art and architecture prioritize the use of natural materials and simple forms, with an emphasis on the beauty of the natural world and the flow of energy.

Another difference between Western and Far Eastern philosophy is the concept of time. In Western thought, time is often seen as linear and chronological, with the past, present, and future being distinct and separate. In contrast, Far Eastern thought emphasizes the cyclical nature of time, with the idea that events are interconnected and that the past, present, and future are all part of a continuous cycle. This perspective emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and the present moment and the recognition that the past and future are not fixed but are constantly evolving.

In terms of architecture, Far Eastern buildings are often characterized by a sense of harmony and balance. This is in contrast to Western buildings, which are often characterized by a sense of hierarchy and dominance. Far Eastern buildings prioritize the use of natural light and ventilation, with an emphasis on the integration of the building with its surroundings. This perspective emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of connection between the building and its environment and the importance of creating a sense of harmony and balance in the built environment.

In terms of art, Far Eastern art is often characterized by a sense of spirituality and transcendence. This is in contrast to Western art, which is often characterized by a sense of individualism and materialism. Far Eastern art emphasizes the importance of the individual's connection to the larger universe and the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of all things. This perspective emphasizes the importance of meditation and introspection and the recognition that art is a means of expressing the deepest aspects of the human experience.

In conclusion, Western thinking has long been dominated by the concept of essence, with a focus on that which is self-contained and distinct from the external world. In contrast, Far Eastern thought is centered around the idea of absence, with the fundamental theme of Far Eastern thinking being not being itself but rather 'the way (dao), which lacks the solidity and fixedness of essence. The distinction between essence and absence lies at the heart of the difference between being and path, between dwelling and wandering. Byung-Chul Han's exploration of the differences between Western and Far Eastern philosophy, aesthetics, architecture, and art sheds fresh light on a culture of absence that may initially appear strange and unfamiliar to those in the West. Through his insightful analysis, Han highlights the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of understanding the interdependence of all phenomena.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 213 x 145 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509546190