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Osho on What is the difference of consciousness between Eastern and Western man?

What is the difference of consciousness between Eastern and Western man?

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Consciousness is one and universal; it is the stage of civilization that shapes our understanding of it, not the geography we inhabit.

— Osho
Synthesized from Source definition
Core Insight:
According to Osho, there is no Eastern or Western consciousness—consciousness is one, unaffected by geography. What differs is civilizational stage: when a culture attains comprehensive material and psychological abundance, religion—the ultimate luxury—blooms. Ancient Eastern societies reached that apex early, so religion peaked there; the younger West advanced science instead, leaving religion comparatively primitive.
Our inner awareness is the same everywhere; the East got comfortable earlier and explored spirit, while the West later poured energy into science.
Why this matters practically
- Avoid stereotyping people by region; look at conditions, not essence.
- Meet basic needs to create space for deeper spiritual inquiry.
- Aim for balance: cultivate scientific clarity and inner growth wherever you are.
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