Alan Watts: Eastern Philosopher
Alan Watts was a British-American philosopher, writer, and speaker known for interpreting Eastern philosophies, particularly Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism, for a Western audience.
Early Life and Influences
Watts' fascination with Eastern philosophy began when he was exposed to Far Eastern landscape paintings and embroideries given to his mother by missionaries returning from China.
Career and Notable Works
Watts' notable works include:
- The Way of Zen (1957): A comprehensive guide to Zen Buddhism.
- Nature, Man and Woman (1958): A book exploring the relationship between humans and nature.
- The Joyous Cosmology (1962): A book exploring the intersection of psychedelics and spirituality.
Philosophical Views
Watts' philosophical views centered around the idea that the universe is a unified, interconnected whole.
- Non-duality: The idea that reality is a unified whole.
- The ego as illusion: Watts believed that our sense of self is a construct.
- The importance of nature: Watts saw nature as a source of wisdom and inspiration.
Legacy and Impact
Watts' teachings have had a significant impact on Western culture, particularly in the areas of spirituality, philosophy, and ecology.
Further Reading
- "The Book: On the Taboo Against Knowing Who You Are" by Alan Watts.
- "Beyond Theology: The Art of Godmanship" by Alan Watts.
- "The Wisdom of Insecurity" by Alan Watts.
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