[One Thousand Characters a Day] Hermann von Keyserling's 'The Wandering Philosopher' <4>

Editor's NoteKaiserling sought to view Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Eastern traditional beliefs with the most open and fair perspective possible, respecting their faith and way of life. Of course, this was not another form of narrow-mindedness that othered them from an orientalist viewpoint or viewed them blindly. He also criticized the irrationalities he encountered locally and maintained a critical eye toward emerging religious groups. Meanwhile, he learned something new every day, one by one. The philosophical reflections of Kaiserling, captured in The Wandering Philosopher, received significant attention in the Western intellectual world after the collapse following World War I. Perhaps this was because it offered guidance on how to view the East and the New World?realms they had previously only treated as ignorant barbarians or wayward fools. Word count: 1065 characters.

To gain freedom, we must overcome nature. In fact, where nature has been conquered, the possibility of freedom naturally follows. New York is proof of this fact. Life in America perfectly expresses that freedom is enjoyed everywhere by overcoming nature.

In America, the ideals of India were realized through the exact opposite method. Life here seems simpler compared to Europe. The widely available conveniences (amenities) are commendable compared to Europe. However, surplus is minimized as much as possible. Necessities are very frugal. For example, there is almost no service in restaurants.

Why do people live this way? From the start, the majority aimed to reduce labor costs and leave greater profits in line with their greed. Yet now, even when there is no need, simple meals are served this way. Most people have become accustomed to it and can live without luxury. They even think that this is a better way to live. It is an organization that perfectly produces results similar to an economy based on slave labor. There are differences, of course. In a slave labor system, the master is immoral, whereas modern life simply satisfies rational desires. Detached as ascetics indifferent to the sacrifices of others!

In fact, this is the only Western way of life. Is this solution the best? Let’s think differently. Compare Western human dignity with the indifferent India and Russia. Nothing is more beneficial than respecting oneself and others equally in all circumstances. Yet these two seemingly opposite concepts actually mean the same thing. The Western concept places meaning on expressions suitable to reality. It is based on the fact that all things, including autonomous governments, have the right to live protected. Rights are not created by power; rather, rights are psychologically expressed as “solutions to protect them.” Those who do not protect themselves are sacrificed. Whether one takes advantage of that opportunity or not is irrelevant. Human dignity gradually disappears among peoples without pride. Those with pride, no matter how rough they were initially, can gradually develop inwardly. Westerners have been captivated by violence. This is not the gentle humanity of India and Russia. It is time for Westerners to seriously consider what universally recognized human rights truly mean.

- Hermann von Kaiserling, The Wandering Philosopher, translated by Hong Moon-woo, Param Book, 32,000 KRW

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