Mind-Body Solution

Anand Vaidya: What Is Pure Consciousness? Non-Dualism & Indian Philosophy Of Mind

Nov 19, 2023
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Anand Vaidya
In this engaging discussion, Anand Vaidya, a renowned philosopher specializing in Indian philosophy and consciousness, explores deep concepts like pure vs. impure consciousness and the diverse perspectives on the self in Indian thought. He elaborates on non-dualism and how it contrasts with Western views, diving into the implications for modern philosophy and spirituality. Anand challenges common assumptions about Indian materialist schools and discusses the moral grounding of intelligence. His insights provoke curiosity, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning.
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INSIGHT

Three Types Of Consciousness Explained

  • Phenomenal, affective, and access consciousness are distinct and debated concepts in Western philosophy.
  • Classical Indian philosophy instead contrasts subject-object (impure) consciousness with pure consciousness lacking subject-object structure.
INSIGHT

Pure Vs. Impure Consciousness

  • Indian texts often contrast impure (subject-object) consciousness with pure consciousness without subject-object structure.
  • Pure consciousness is controversial because ordinary conscious states appear intentional and object-directed.
INSIGHT

Different Philosophical Motivations

  • 'Western' and 'Indian' traditions are internally diverse and influenced each other over millennia.
  • Indian debates often centre on the relation between Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (nature) rather than Descartes-style vertical mind-body problems.
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