Exploring Hindu-Buddhist Philosophies: The Role of Quiet Ego and Non-Attachment in Fostering Resilience among Young Indians

Abstract

Rooted in the profound philosophies of Hinduism and Buddhism, this research endeavors to meticulously examine the intricate interrelationships among resilience, the concept of a quiet ego, and non-attachment. The primary objective of this inquiry is to systematically elucidate the contributions of a quiet ego and non-attachment to the psychological well-being and adaptability of the contemporary younger generation confronted with a myriad of complex challenges. The aim is to discern the underlying traits that underpin resilience within the contextual framework of these venerable philosophical traditions. Central to this investigation is the transcendence of the ‘ego’ or ‘Ahaṁkāra’ in Hindu philosophy, wherein the cultivation of a self-concept that is less self-centered and more psychologically flexible assumes paramount significance in navigating adversities. Concurrently, the Buddhist principle of ‘Non-Attachment’ and its Hindu counterpart, ‘Anasakti,’ advocate for relinquishing fixations, material possessions, and desired outcomes. Embracing a psychological stance characterized by acceptance, impermanence, and liberation from life’s tumultuous nature, these principles acquire particular relevance in the Indian context. The contemporary link between a quiet ego, non-attachment, and psychological distress underscores the detrimental impact of excessive self-focus on health, as elucidated by Tayal et al. (2020). To empirically test our proposition, we recruited 200 respondents (20-25 years) from urban regions of India. Utilizing the Quiet Ego scale (QES) (Wayment & Bauer, 2014), Non-attachment scale (NA-7) (Sahdra et al., 2010), and Resilience scale (RS-14) (Wagnild & Young, 1993), our statistical analyses unveiled a robust positive correlation between Quiet Ego (QE), Non-Attachment (NA), and resilience. Furthermore, our study delved into the predictive relationship between QE and NA on resilience, revealing a statistically significant model where both factors positively influenced resilience (p<0.001). This underscores the crucial role of a quiet ego and practicing non-attachment as effective predictors of coping with life stressors. In the broader context, our findings emphasize integrating these concepts into contemplative practices and interventions for a culturally relevant and holistic approach to resilience enhancement. By exploring beyond Western paradigms and integrating principles from Indian Darshanas, such as the ‘Quiet Ego’ and ‘Non-Attachment,’ our research offers a clear and cohesive pathway to a more nuanced understanding of human resilience, facilitating effective coping strategies in the face of life’s challenges. This narrative underscores the profound potential of these cultural elements in cultivating resilience, providing valuable insights for both research and practical applications.