In order to compare the estem thoughts with the western thoughts, we need to have the reference of comparison. As a reference of comparison between eastern and western thoughts, I established the three level of understanding; the levels of Tao(道)-Sein understanding, Simul(時物)-Dasein understanding, Eumyangsang(陰陽相)―Vorstellung understanding.
It is hard to define the level of Tao-Sein understanding conceptually. ‘Sein’ corresponds to ‘Tao(道)’.‘Tao’ is free from the limits of time and space, cause and effect. Nonetheless, Tao and Sein are the origin and foundation of all things. The major terms of eastern thoughts are related to this level.
The Simul―Dasein understanding level centers upon the understanding of synchronocity and totality. This level is always represented as ‘now and here.’ At this level, there is a cause and effect.
The Eumyangsang-Vorstellung understanding is based upon the categorical and dichotomous understanding. At this level, understanding is always restrained by either time and place or cause and effect, or both. And the subject and the object, the observer and the observed are recognized as divided. The Eumyangsang-Vorstellung understanding is dichotomous, partial, relative, and analytic. The western modern epistemology or world-view has been based on the Vorstellung understanding.