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History of Indian Philosophy by Surendranath Dasgupta: A Monumental Treatise on the Intellectual Heritage of India

Enrique Blair

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Indian philosophy is a vast and multifaceted subject, with its roots stretching back to the ancient Vedic period. Over the centuries, numerous schools of thought have emerged, each offering unique perspectives on the nature of reality, the human condition, and the path to ultimate liberation.

A History of Indian Philosophy by Surendranath Dasgupta (All 5 Volumes Combined)

by Surendranath Dasgupta

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	3448 pages

Surendranath Dasgupta's monumental work, 'History of Indian Philosophy,' stands as a comprehensive and authoritative guide to this rich intellectual heritage. Originally published in five volumes, Dasgupta's masterpiece presents a detailed examination of the major philosophical systems of India, from the early Upanishads to the modern era.

Volume I: Vedic and Pre-Buddhistic Philosophy

The first volume of Dasgupta's work delves into the foundations of Indian philosophy, beginning with the ancient Vedas. He examines the early philosophical concepts found in the Rig Veda, Atharva Veda, and other Vedic texts.

Dasgupta also explores the development of pre-Buddhistic philosophy, including the Upanishads, which contain some of the most profound and influential philosophical ideas in human history. He discusses the key concepts of Brahman, Atman, and Maya, as well as the various theories of karma and rebirth.

Volume II: The Early Buddhist Philosophy

The second volume focuses on the early Buddhist philosophy, which emerged in the 6th century BCE. Dasgupta examines the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha, as well as the development of the various Buddhist schools of thought, including Theravada and Mahayana.

He discusses the Buddhist doctrines of the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, and Nirvana. He also explores the philosophical implications of Buddhist metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics.

Volume III: The Later Buddhist Philosophy

The third volume continues the exploration of Buddhist philosophy, focusing on its later developments. Dasgupta examines the rise of Mahayana Buddhism, which introduced new concepts such as the Bodhisattva ideal and the Buddha-nature.

He discusses the philosophical systems of Nagarjuna, Vasubandhu, and Dharmakirti, as well as the development of tantric Buddhism. He also explores the influence of Buddhist philosophy on Indian art, literature, and social thought.

Volume IV: The Systems of Non-Buddhist Indian Philosophy

The fourth volume turns its attention to the non-Buddhist systems of Indian philosophy. Dasgupta examines the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy: Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, and Vedanta.

He discusses the key concepts and methods of each school, as well as their contributions to Indian thought. He also explores the relationship between these schools and Buddhism and Jainism.

Volume V: Indian Idealism

The fifth and final volume of Dasgupta's work focuses on Indian idealism, which dominated Indian philosophy from the 8th century CE onwards. He examines the philosophical systems of Shankara, Ramanuja, Madhva, and Nimbarka, as well as the later developments of Vedanta philosophy.

Dasgupta discusses the key concepts of Maya, Brahman, and Atman, as well as the various theories of knowledge and liberation. He also explores the influence of Indian idealism on Indian art, literature, and social thought.

Surendranath Dasgupta's 'History of Indian Philosophy' is a monumental work that provides a comprehensive and authoritative overview of the rich intellectual heritage of India. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in the history of ideas and the development of human thought.

The book is a testament to Dasgupta's vast knowledge and his deep understanding of Indian philosophy. It is a work that will continue to be studied and admired by scholars and students for generations to come.

A History of Indian Philosophy by Surendranath Dasgupta (All 5 Volumes Combined)

by Surendranath Dasgupta

4.1 out of 5