Classical Vaisesika in Indian Philosophy

Description

Vaisesika is one of the six systems of Hindu philosophy. It represents a pluralistic realism and is usually held to be an atomistic, metaphysical theory. This book explors the basic tenets of the Vaisesika classical school of Indian philosophy from a new perspective. The author argues that it reveals an epistemological formulation of its own, which was diminished due to later developments in the history of Indian philosophical tradition. Focusing on the principles of knowable objects and the processes of knowing as propounded by the Vaisesika school of Indian Philosophy, the book offers a fuller appreciation of the theories propounded in Vaisesika. Providing a balanced approach by examining earliest available material in the original sources of Vaisesika and concentrating on the epistemological pattern adopted therein, it also provides an authentic and comprehensive understanding of Vaisesika concepts. This is the first introductory sourcebook in English for the authentic study of Vaisesika.

Contents

1. Introduction 2. Theme of Knowing 3. Objects of Knowing 4. Method of Knowing 5. Means/Ways of Knowing 6. Modes/Types of Knowing 7. Abode/Faculties of Knowing 8. Instrument of Knowing 9. Subject/Agent of Knowing 10. Conclusion

Author Bio

Shashiprabha Kumar is Professor and Chairperson of the Special Centre for Sanskrit Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, India.

Related Subjects

1. South Asian Studies
2. Asian Religions
3. Eastern Philosophy
4. Indian Philosophy
5. Asian Religion
6. Hinduism