Matilal, Bimal Krishna. Perception: An Essay on Classic Indian theories of Knowledge
1986, Oxford: Oxford University Press.
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Added by: Giada FratantonioAbstract: This book is a defence of a form of realism which stands closest to that upheld by the Nyaya-Vaid'sesika school in classical India. The author presents the Nyaya view and critically examines it against that of its traditional opponent, the Buddhist version of phenomenalism and idealism. His reconstruction of Nyaya arguments meets not only traditional Buddhist objections but also those of modern sense-data representationalists.Comment: This text defends a Nyāya-style realism against Buddhist phenomenalism and idealism, and against modern sense-data theories. It works well in an epistemology or philosophy of perception module, read alongside the sense-data debate (Russell, Ayer) or contemporary direct realism. Or it could feature in a course dedicated to Indian philosophy, epistemology, and/or philosophy of science.
Matilal, Bimal Krishna. Logical Illumination Of Indian Mysticism
1977, Delhi: Oxford University Press.
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Added by: Tammo Lossau, Contributed by: Tammo LossauPublisher’s Note:
Figures from Eastern Philosophy in general and Nāgārjuna in particular are often labeled as engaging in mysticism. In this lecture, Matilal argues that if we want to use this label, we must at least admit that this mysticism is illuminated by rigorous logical argument.Comment: In a class that discusses Nāgārjuna, this text helps both with the interpretation of the text itself as well as to engage with the pitfalls of a Western perception of the text, including our inclination to view Eastern texts as "exotic" and not fully philosophical.
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