Western Enlightenment and Eastern Awakening: towards a holistic character

In its desire to achieve progress, Enlightenment has been the key Western approach whereas the East has preferred to highlight the aspects of Awakening for the progress of mankind. A journey from Enlightenment to Awakening could be construed as that of matter to consciousness. Building a holistic character would imply a synthesis between the two. Convergence between science and spirituality and building the rishi-character would create a sustainable society. A corporate world that wants to achieve the height of excellence and yet maintain and preserve harmony among social segments needs to identify a rishi-consciousness. Enlightenment united with the spirit of Awakening would infuse in individuals and corporations the elements of holistic character-competence would ultimately lead to the formation of a new age in managing society and enterprises. This paper tries to trace the roots of a holistic character through the symbiosis of Western Enlightenment and Eastern Awakening.