Buddha, The Enlightened One Vs. Socrates, The Ethical One

Buddha, the ‘Enlightened One’ vs. Socrates, the ‘Ethical One’ The term “world-view” is difficult to define because it is a complex phenomenon with many interpretations. As we understand it, a world-view is a model of reality- a creation of thoughts and beliefs about the universe. Socrates and Buddha each had their own ways of defining their respective worldviews. Socrates believed that all human beings were in search of ever lasting happiness that could only be achieved if an individual’s path of life was in alignment with the nature of his soul. Whereas, Buddha had a logical and conceptual comprehension of man and that death was inevitable for all members of society. Although both philosophers were unique in the making of their attitudes and beliefs, both shared similar ideas that focused on freeing the mind of the negative aspects of society. Socrates view of the world around him saw corruption overtaking the innocence of the human soul. He noticed that people were in search of an unattainable reality, only focusing on materialistic and unimportant things. If people focused more on the quality of their lives rather than the time they had left on earth, Socrates believes that they would become more virtuous beings and capable of happiness, the most important

To him, the soul was what makes each one of us human and the part of us that distinctly creates our authentic identity. He claims that the soul gives one reason and knowledge, a mechanism only possible for mankind. In light of his beliefs, Socrates and the Greeks viewed the soul superior to that of the human body. Socrates was almost certain there was an afterlife, but uncertain of what it held inside. He knew that if one led a life of virtue and honor, rather than one of narcissism and the constant search for political and social power, then one would enter the golden gates of a divine