Vada in Theory and Practice

Book Detail

• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of Pages: 434
• Release Date: 01-06-2016
• EAN: 9788124608562
• Package Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.9 x 1.2 inches
• Languages: English

Description

Vada (debate, dialogue, discussion) has been the essence of Indian intellectual tradition, shaping and expanding various philosophical and knowledge systems. This book explores how debate culture permeated deep into the moral, ethical, religious, and sociocultural structures of India, fostering diversity and pluralism.

Key highlights of the book:

• Debate as a Foundational Tradition:

  • Traces the origins of Vada back to Anvikshiki (logical inquiry) from the BC era.
  • Explains how debate was central to Indian philosophy, Ayurveda, Arthashastra, Kamasutra, and even the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

• Philosophical and Religious Conflicts:

  • Discusses key philosophical debates centered around karma, jnana, violence vs. non-violence, pravritti vs. nivritti (worldly engagement vs. renunciation).
  • Examines how various religious systems engaged in rigorous debates.

• Modern Relevance of Vada:

  • Explores how nineteenth- and twentieth-century scholars continued to use debate as a tool for philosophical and scientific inquiry.
  • Highlights the contributions of spiritual thinkers like Ramana Maharshi, J. Krishnamurti, and Vinoba Bhave as proponents of dialogue.
  • Examines how Indian scholars applied Vada techniques to critically engage with Western philosophical and scientific systems.

This book serves as a rich resource for philosophers, scholars, and enthusiasts of Indian knowledge systems, offering deep insights into the tradition of intellectual debates that shaped Indian thought.