Indian Perspectives on Consciousness, Language and Self: The School of Recognition on Linguistics and Philosophy of Mind

The book explores the theory of consciousness developed by the school of Recognition, an Indian philosophical tradition that thrived in Kashmir in the tenth century CE, and argues that consciousness has a linguistic nature. It establishes connections with the contemporary analytic debate and explores the relationship between the thinkers of the school of Recognition and the thought of Bhartṛhari.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 156 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate theory of consciousness developed by the renowned school of Recognition, an Indian philosophical tradition that flourished in Kashmir during the tenth century CE. It presents a compelling argument that consciousness possesses a linguistic essence, placing the doctrines of this tradition within the broader context of Indian philosophy and establishing connections with the contemporary analytic discourse.

The book specifically focuses on Utpaladeva and Abhinavagupta, two Hindu intellectuals who were prominent figures within the school of Recognition. It argues that these authors propagated ideas that bear striking similarities with contemporary higher-order theories of consciousness. Moreover, the book explores the intricate relationship between the thinkers of the school of Recognition and the renowned grammarian/philosopher Bhartṛhari, who lived in the fifth century CE. By bridging a gap that still exists between scholars engaged with Western traditions and Sanskrit specialists focused on textual materials, the author employs concepts from contemporary philosophy of mind to illustrate the Indian arguments and adopts an interdisciplinary approach, referencing the original sources extensively.

This book offers valuable insights to historians of Indian thought, as well as scholars engaged in Non-Western Philosophy, Comparative Philosophy, Indian Philosophy, Religion, Hinduism, Tantric Studies, and South Asian Studies. It provides a fresh perspective on the study of consciousness and sheds light on the rich tapestry of Indian philosophical traditions.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367528232