Perspectives of Reality

The six major orthodox schools of philosophical thought in Hinduism, known as the orthodox darsanas, are concerned with the nature of reality and it is this theme which unites them. The text begins by analyzing the concept of knowledge, and what constitutes real knowledge. Four topics - the self, causality, the concept of God, and liberation - are then examined. In this carefully researched and clearly written introduction to Hinduism's philosophical traditions Professor Fowler provides a foundation for insight into today's India by helping us understand how Hinduism has answered the fundamental questions about existence and human life: Who am I? What is real? How do we know? What is the right thing to do? What is the ultimate goal of life? . This book offers the reader who wishes to understand the philosophical basis of Hinduism a clear and comprehensive introduction. It also provides a solid foundation for the reader who wishes to go on to advanced and detailed studies of any of the Hindu philosophical traditions. - From the Foreword by John M. Koller