Description
This landmark survey is the go-to reference for anyone serious about understanding Indian philosophy. Chandradhar Sharma maps out every major school—from Vedanta and Samkhya to Nyaya and Buddhism—with clarity and depth that makes dense philosophy accessible. At 415 pages, it’s comprehensive enough to satisfy academic study yet readable enough for the curious learner. Whether you’re a philosophy student, spiritual seeker, or Indian history enthusiast, this book gives you the intellectual framework to engage with India’s richest intellectual traditions. Many readers keep this as their desk reference for quick insights into classical Indian thought.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass; 14th edition (1 January 2016); Motilal Banarsidass
- Language : English
- Paperback : 415 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120803655
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120803657
- Item Weight : 386 g
- Dimensions : 14 x 2 x 22 cm
- Country of Origin : India
- Net Quantity : 386 Grams
- Importer : Createspace Independent Pub
- Packer : Createspace Independent Pub
- Generic Name : Book
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main Indian philosophy schools covered in this book?
The book surveys all six orthodox Hindu schools (Vedanta, Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, and Mimamsa) plus heterodox schools like Buddhism and Jainism. It provides philosophical foundations, key arguments, and historical context for each tradition.
Is this book suitable for beginners or only scholars?
While comprehensive, Chandradhar Sharma writes clearly for both audiences. Beginners can read it as an introduction; philosophy students use it as a reference text. The 415-page structure allows you to dive deep or read selectively.
Why is the Motilal Banarsidass edition considered the standard?
Motilal Banarsidass is India’s premier publisher of Sanskrit and philosophy texts. This 14th edition (2016) reflects decades of refinement and remains the trusted version in Indian universities and libraries.
Can I use this book for university coursework or exams?
Yes, this is a prescribed text in many Indian university philosophy programs. It’s widely recommended for UGC-NET exams, MA Philosophy courses, and competitive exams that test Indian philosophy knowledge.
How does this compare to other Indian philosophy books?
Unlike introductory guides, this offers rigorous, systematic coverage of each school’s metaphysics, epistemology, and logic. It’s denser than popular summaries but more accessible than dense Sanskrit commentaries.
