Engaging Buddhism: Why It Matters To Philosophy

Book Description

Philosophy and spirituality have long walked separate paths in Western academic tradition, yet Buddhist thought offers a profound bridge between rigorous intellectual inquiry and transformative spiritual practice. Jay L. Garfield presents a compelling case for why contemporary philosophers should seriously engage with Buddhist philosophical traditions, not as exotic curiosities, but as vital contributors to ongoing philosophical conversations.

Rather than offering a basic introduction, this work assumes readers are ready for deep philosophical engagement. Garfield systematically explores how Buddhist metaphysical frameworks illuminate fundamental questions about consciousness, personal identity, knowledge, language, and ethical living. Drawing from diverse Asian Buddhist traditions including Indian and Tibetan sources, he demonstrates the remarkable heterogeneity and intellectual richness within Buddhist thought.

What makes this exploration particularly valuable is Garfield's ability to translate complex philosophical concepts into accessible language while maintaining their depth and precision. Each chapter either introduces Buddhist perspectives on contemporary Western philosophical problems or begins with familiar philosophical questions and reveals how Buddhist approaches offer fresh insights and solutions.

The book spans crucial areas including metaphysics, philosophy of mind, phenomenology, epistemology, and ethics, showing how Buddhist philosophical positions can enrich and challenge Western philosophical assumptions. Garfield concludes with thoughtful reflections on methodology, offering guidance for meaningful cross-cultural philosophical dialogue.

For those seeking to expand their intellectual and spiritual horizons, this work demonstrates how ancient wisdom traditions continue to offer profound insights for contemporary seekers and thinkers alike.