Indian and Intercultural Philosophy: Personhood, Consciousness, and Causality

Douglas Berger has advanced research and reflection on Indian philosophical traditions for over twenty years, and this volume showcases his contribution by bringing together his perspectives on classical Indian philosophies with Confucian, Chinese Buddhist, and medieval Indian Sufi traditions. Chapters explore debates between Nyaya and Buddhist philosophers, Sankaras theory of the self, Nagarjunas idea of emptiness, and the relationship between awareness and embodiment in Indian thought. Berger approaches the arguments from an intercultural perspective, demonstrating how classical Indian thought has relevance and resonance with ancient Confucian views of ethics, Chinese Buddhist depictions of consciousness, and medieval Mughal conceptions of divinity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 12 August 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Douglas Berger, a renowned scholar of Indian philosophy, has dedicated over two decades to exploring the rich tapestry of classical and cross-cultural perspectives within Indian philosophical traditions. In this comprehensive volume, Berger showcases the profound impact of his scholarly endeavors by presenting his insightful interpretations of classical Indian philosophies, placing them in dialogue with Confucian, Chinese Buddhist, and medieval Indian Sufi traditions.

Through a series of engaging chapters, Berger delves into intricate debates between Nyaya and Buddhist philosophers, exploring themes such as consciousness, identity, the nature of Sankara's theory of the self, the precise essence of Nagarjunas concept of emptiness, and the intricate relationship between awareness and embodiment within the broad spectrum of Indian thought. His expertise is evident as he skillfully connects Chinese Confucian and Buddhist texts with classical Indian theories of ethics and consciousness, contrasts the ideas of seminal European thinkers like Nietzsche and Derrida with prevailing themes in Buddhism, and sheds light on the spiritual and political dimensions of the Mughal prince Dara Shukoh's immersion into Vedantic thought.

Berger's approach is intercultural in nature, emphasizing the relevance and resonance of classical Indian thought with ancient Confucian views of ethics, Chinese Buddhist depictions of consciousness, and medieval Mughal conceptions of divinity. By adopting this interdisciplinary perspective, Berger demonstrates how classical Indian philosophy continues to inspire and inform contemporary thought, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

The result of Berger's tireless research and reflection is a volume that celebrates the rigor, vitality, and intercultural resonance of India's rich philosophical heritage. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the profound insights and enduring wisdom of India's philosophical traditions. It is a testament to Douglas Berger's dedication to advancing our understanding of the world and his contribution to the field of philosophy.

Weight: 516g
Dimension: 163 x 243 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350174177