Description
This comprehensive work traces the evolution of Buddhist philosophical thought from its earliest foundations to its diverse developments across Asia. Rather than presenting Buddhism as a monolithic tradition, the author examines the dynamic interplay between continuity and change that has characterized Buddhist philosophy over two millennia. The book explores how core concepts like dependent origination, non-self, and emptiness were interpreted and reinterpreted by different schools—from early Theravada to Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Ideal for philosophy students, researchers, and anyone seeking a scholarly yet accessible overview of Buddhist intellectual history, this volume illuminates the debates, innovations, and transformations that shaped one of the world’s great philosophical traditions. Published by Motilal Banarsidass, a trusted name in Indological studies, this hardcover edition offers serious readers a valuable reference for understanding how Buddhist philosophy responded to changing cultural and intellectual contexts while maintaining its essential insights into the nature of reality and human experience.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass Publications (1 January 2011)
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 304 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120811917
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120811911
- Item Weight : 500 g
- Country of Origin : India
Frequently Asked Questions
What topics are covered in A History of Buddhist Philosophy?
This book covers the development of Buddhist philosophical thought from its origins through various schools including Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. It examines core concepts like dependent origination, non-self, emptiness, and how different traditions interpreted these ideas across centuries and cultures.
Is this book suitable for beginners in Buddhist philosophy?
While comprehensive and scholarly, this book is accessible to serious students and general readers interested in Buddhist thought. It’s particularly valuable for university students, researchers, and those who want an in-depth understanding rather than a basic introduction to Buddhism.
Who is the author of A History of Buddhist Philosophy?
The book is authored by David J. Kalupahana, a distinguished scholar of Buddhist philosophy known for his expertise in early Buddhist thought and comparative philosophy. His work is respected in academic circles for its rigorous scholarship and clarity.
Where can I buy this Buddhist philosophy book in India?
You can buy A History of Buddhist Philosophy online at The Bookish Owl for ₹595 with fast delivery across India. The hardcover edition is published by Motilal Banarsidass and contains 304 pages of comprehensive philosophical analysis.
What makes this Buddhist philosophy book different from others?
This book uniquely focuses on both continuities and discontinuities in Buddhist thought, showing how the tradition evolved while maintaining core insights. Rather than presenting a static view, it examines the dynamic debates and transformations that shaped Buddhist philosophy across different schools and historical periods.
