Transitioning from Perceptions to Perspectives: The Essence of Open-mindedness

Transitioning from Perceptions to Perspectives: The Essence of Open-mindedness

Janpha Thadphoothon

I wrote this article on May 22, 2024, Vesak Day. This day marks the birth, enlightenment, and Nibbana of the Buddha, a significant celebration for Buddhists.

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Following the tradition observed by many Buddhists in Thailand, I too engaged in acts of merit and goodwill on this significant national holiday. As we commemorate this auspicious day, I extend an invitation to ponder deeply on the importance of embracing diversity and cultivating greater openness. In my view, it is imperative for us to broaden our perspectives and embrace the richness of diversity in our experiences and interactions.

So, on this special day, I would like to reflect on the notions of perception and perspective and the importance of being open-minded.

Perspective involves moving beyond our own perceptions. Our perceptions are indirect; we perceive the world through our cultural lenses and history—call it culture if you will. What is normal and acceptable for us may be odd or strange to people from different cultures or economies.

My perception has been significantly influenced by my life in Thailand. Growing up and living in this cultural and societal context has shaped my worldview in unique ways. It may not be as cosmopolitan as those who have experienced life in various international settings, but it is rich with the traditions, values, and practices inherent to Thai culture. 

Living in Thailand has provided me with a deep appreciation for our customs, religious practices, and social norms. However, it also means that my understanding of the world is largely framed through this singular cultural lens. While this has its strengths, it also means that I might not have the broad, diverse perspectives that come from living in multiple, varied cultural environments. Nonetheless, I strive to remain open-minded and willing to learn from other cultures and experiences to broaden my understanding and enrich my perception of the world.

Buddhism has endured through the ages and is practiced in numerous countries, encompassing a variety of sects. Some Buddhist monks adhere to a practice of eating only one meal a day and follow a vegetarian diet. In contrast, certain sects allow monks to marry and have children.

From what I have been studying, Buddhism is broadly divided into two major sects: Mahayana and Theravada (often referred to as Hinayana, though this term is considered pejorative). As we know, Mahayana, which means "Great Vehicle," is one of the two main branches and is practiced predominantly in East Asia, including countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the idea of the Bodhisattva, a being who seeks enlightenment not just for themselves but for all sentient beings, underscoring compassion and altruism. Its practices include meditation, chanting, and rituals, with a strong focus on devotional practices and the worship of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. It is believed that Mahayana Buddhists focus on the potential for all beings to attain Buddhahood, highlighting the inherent Buddha-nature present in everyone.

In my opinion, Theravada Buddhism, which means "Teaching of the Elders," offers a different yet equally profound approach. It is the oldest form of Buddhism, mainly practiced in South and Southeast Asia, including countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. Theravada emphasizes the teachings found in the Pali Canon, considered the oldest Buddhist scripture, and focuses on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as the way to achieve enlightenment. The goal in Theravada is to become an Arhat, a person who has attained Nirvana through individual effort. Its practices include vipassana (insight) and samatha (tranquility) meditation, observing monastic codes (Vinaya), and laypeople supporting the monastic community through almsgiving. Despite the differences in approaches and practices, both Mahayana and Theravada share core Buddhist principles, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the ultimate goal of achieving enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).

Cross-cultural Communication

I have been a lecturer of cross-cultural communication for over five years, advocating for Thais to learn foreign languages, particularly those of our neighboring countries, and of course, English. 

I firmly believe that learning additional languages is crucial for broadening our perspectives and becoming more open-minded individuals. Mastering different languages enables us to access a wealth of knowledge, cultures, and viewpoints that would otherwise remain out of reach. It fosters empathy and understanding, allowing us to connect with people from diverse backgrounds on a deeper level.

Moreover, multilingualism equips us with the skills to navigate the increasingly interconnected global landscape. It enhances our ability to communicate effectively in various contexts, be it in business, education, or social interactions. By learning the languages of our neighbors, we can strengthen regional ties, promote cultural exchange, and contribute to a more harmonious and cooperative Southeast Asia.

In my experience, the process of learning a new language also teaches patience, perseverance, and adaptability—qualities that are essential for cross-cultural understanding and communication. Therefore, I encourage everyone to embrace the challenge of learning new languages as a pathway to personal growth and global citizenship.

Our perceptions are not direct.

Our perceptions are the lenses through which we view the world, shaped by our personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and societal norms. These perceptions form the foundation of how we interpret reality, but they can also limit our understanding if we are not careful. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that our way of seeing the world is the only or the best way, especially when our experiences are rooted in a single cultural context.

Moving from perception to perspective involves a conscious effort to look beyond our immediate experiences and consider the views and experiences of others. Perspective is about understanding that our perceptions are just one of many ways to interpret the world. It requires us to acknowledge the limitations of our own viewpoints and to seek out and value the diverse perspectives that others bring.

We should entertain the idea that we may not be infallible or entirely correct in our beliefs. It's crucial to acknowledge that our perceptions and convictions may fall short of perfection. Just as the principle of scientific inquiry encourages skepticism and humility, reminding us to remain open to the possibility of error, adopting a mindset of "I could be wrong" can lead to greater intellectual honesty and openness to alternative viewpoints.

To Travel is to Broaden Your Mind

I am sure you would agree with me that traveling holds an unparalleled power to expand our minds and deepen our perspectives. My personal experience is that each journey I embark upon has the potential to transform not only my understanding of the world but also my sense of self. As we know, stepping outside the boundaries of our familiar surroundings allows us to immerse ourselves in diverse cultures, traditions, and ways of life, offering invaluable lessons and insights along the way.

In my opinion, one of the most profound aspects of travel is its ability to challenge and reshape our preconceived notions. By encountering different perspectives and witnessing the beauty of cultural diversity firsthand, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human experience. You would agree with me that this exposure fosters empathy and compassion, breaking down barriers and fostering a greater sense of interconnectedness among all people.

Moreover, my personal belief is that travel not only broadens our understanding of the world but also enriches our inner lives. Each new destination offers a canvas upon which to paint memories, experiences, and personal growth. Through the challenges and adventures encountered on the road, we discover strengths we never knew we had and cultivate a greater sense of resilience and adaptability.

Reading Books and Talking to Others

In my belief, engaging in activities such as reading books and conversing with others serves as a catalyst for expanding our minds. During a conversation with a bookseller, he conveyed to me the notion that a reader embodies an open-minded individual. This assertion has lingered in my thoughts extensively.

He articulated that a person who is narrow-minded struggles to immerse themselves in reading and comprehending alternative perspectives. This underscores the profound influence of reading and dialogue in fostering open-mindedness and empathy towards others' viewpoints.

Open Your Mind

Open-mindedness is the key to this transformation. It involves being willing to question our own assumptions, listen actively to others, and embrace new ideas and experiences. By being open-minded, we can expand our horizons, deepen our understanding, and foster a more inclusive and empathetic worldview.

In a globalized world, where interactions with people from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences are increasingly common, open-mindedness is more important than ever. It enables us to build bridges across cultural divides, collaborate effectively in diverse teams, and create more harmonious communities.

On this auspicious day, the Vesak, let us embrace diversity in all its forms. By opening our minds and hearts to the richness of different perspectives, we can learn, grow, and create a better, more inclusive world for everyone.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.