Jnanasrimitra (975-1025) was regarded by both Buddhists and non-Buddhists as the most important Indian philosopher of his generation. His theory of exclusion combined a philosophy of language with a theory of conceptual content to explore the nature of words and thought. Jnanasrimitra's theory informed much of the work accomplished at Vikramasila; a monastic and educational complex instrumental to the growth of Buddhism. His ideas were also passionately debated among successive Hindu and Jain philosophers.This volume marks the first English translation of Jnanasrimitra's Monograph on Exclusion; a careful; critical investigation into language; perception; and conceptual awareness. Featuring the rival arguments of Buddhist and Hindu intellectuals; among other thinkers; the Monograph reflects more than half a millennium of competing claims while providing an invaluable introduction to a crucial philosopher. Lawrence J. McCrea and Parimal G. Patil familiarize the reader with the author; themes; and topics of the text and situate Jnanasrimitra's findings within his larger intellectual milieu. Their clear; accessible; and accurate translation proves the influence of Jnanasrimitra on the foundations of Buddhist and Indian philosophy.
#171913 in Books 2007Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.69 x 1.08 x 5.81l; 1.32 #File Name: 0231140665320 pages
Review
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Profoundly thought provoking. Provides a deepening respect as well as some cautions in the pursuit of QiGong.By QuadradoxShort of tracking each of David Palmer's references to see whether they hold up to scrutiny; a task for the next authors in this field; this work appears to be a very carefully researched and balanced presentation of the modern struggle in China with its ancient roots in a meditative; energetic and health practice previously known by other names and now more popularly by QiGong. It also reads very well; not just data ... but a powerful communication of the story as well.Though I finished reading it several months ago; its concepts and the questions raised still linger on -- which is to me the sign of a well written book which reached my own roots. I appreciated the author's efforts to paint the social picture of motivatons to revive the ancient practices and the subsequent multi-layered governmental and social struggle form 1949 to 1999 to deal with their misrepresentation for commerical or political gain. I felt the deep desire for a verifiable scientific basis underlying a long cherished cultural heritage; a means to restore world-wide recognition; a promise for better health while simultaneously promoting individual responsibility; and that never ending thirst to possess secret knowledge. I felt the deep frustration; at times fear; despair and danger when the tools of science; sometimes used rightly; sometimes perhaps used wrongly given their present limitations and political implementations -- cast doubts and genuine risks onto the spiralling mountain of hopes and aspirations erected in the name of QiGong.Overall; it was a very helpful perspective. I came away deciding I would really need and want to see some of what these practices -- especially "medical Qigong" do for me and my acquaintances; when performed safely and responsibly. Yet; I would simultaneously need to maintain a perpetual skepticism about overly grandiose claims and would-be masters. This requirement to remain personally responsible for evaluating data; knowledge; or experience is not unique to Daoism or QiGong -- it is a part of any philosophical; scientific; or religious pursuit. But as a westerner I have found it initally quite hard to see a big enough picture; with sufficiency detail and accuracy when it comes to chinese medicine; spirituality; martial arts and related practices. For me; this balance is somewhat easier to achieve when I have gain more of the broader historical context from which these practices emerged. Thus; I appreciate the diligence and fairness with which the author intentionally approached this very substantial historical documentation -- and I realize there will also be other points of view presented in the future.I am very grateful to have read this as a starting point.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. in my opinion this book does a wonderful job of putting into context a modern history of ...By Keni Lee BurgessNo book can be an alpha and omega of a subject. Although; in my opinion this book does a wonderful job of putting into context a modern history of Qigong. Just like the modern version of "physical" Yoga; that is erroneously believed to be a direct transmission from the ancient past; Qigong today is a blend of many present day perceptions and scientific advancements. There are far too many misconceptions associated with these practices. If you are a Kung Fu; Qigong; or TCM student; although it may shatter your strongly held romantic dreams of temple monks and their paranormal abilities; it will bring a realistic clarity into a practice studied by multitudes of devotees that retains many real life benefits. Highly recommended. Readable. Not a dry academic tome.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Very valubleBy Neale PoveyTHE outstanding documentation on Qigong Fever. There is no comparison in my experience to this book Qigong Fever. The cultural identity of China is deeply tied to Qigong and this is fleshed out so well in this book. Without hesitation I endorse this book and thank Dr. David Palmer for his creative work.
