**1. Individualism and Cultural Patterning** Jeremy Lent argues in [[The Patterning Instinct]] that Western thought is deeply influenced by metaphors of separation—between self and others, human and [[Nature]]—which fuel a hyper-individualistic worldview. This contrasts with Eastern relational [[Thinking]], where the self is understood in connection to a larger whole. **2. The Clash of Cognitive Patterns** Lent’s exploration of Eastern and Western worldviews as distinct cognitive patterns offers another comedic lens. Comedy thrives in moments of cultural clash, where differing patterns collide in unexpected ways. • **The Relational vs. Mechanistic Clash** Lent contrasts Western analytical thought (focused on objects and their categories) with Eastern relational thought (focused on interconnections). Humour might emerge from: • **Misaligned problem-solving:** A Westerner’s mechanical, linear approach to solving a shared problem could hilariously conflict with an Easterner’s relational, adaptive approach—leading to exaggerated misunderstandings. • **Literal interpretations of metaphors:** A Westerner, steeped in mechanistic thinking, might take relational metaphors literally, creating absurd scenarios (e.g., “If everything is connected, why don’t trees argue?”). • **Time and Process as Humour** Lent also notes that Western cultures often view time as linear and progress-driven, while Eastern traditions may embrace cyclical or process-oriented views: • A Westerner might obsess over “efficiency,” only to be confounded by an Eastern practice that prioritises flow and patience, such as treating a tea ceremony like a checklist. • Conversely, a relational thinker could bungle a linear, task-oriented system, generating humour in their refusal to “rush the process.” **4. Comedy as a Mirror of Cultural Patterns** Lent argues that humanity’s path is shaped by deep-seated metaphors. Comedy can serve as a mirror to reveal and critique these patterns: • **Western Struggles with Relational Thinking:** A character rigidly focused on their “individual journey” might hilariously fail to see how they are embedded in a larger web of meaning, underscoring Lent’s critique of Western disconnection. • **Eastern Struggles with Individuality:** Conversely, a relational thinker might comically overextend themselves trying to meet communal obligations, highlighting the downsides of over-connection. **Conclusion** By entwining Bergson’s insights with Lent’s exploration of cultural metaphors, comedy becomes a powerful tool to illuminate the contrasts between Eastern and Western patterns of thought. Whether highlighting the absurdities of individualism, dualism, or their clash with relational and non-dualistic thinking, humour can critique the metaphors that shape our worldview, inviting reflection on how humanity might chart a more harmonious path forward. Would you like a specific comedic sketch or scenario developed along these lines, Lord Thomas? `Concepts:` [[Philosophy]] `Knowledge Base:`