Classical Indian metaphysics : refutations of realism and the emergence of "new logic" /

The idealist-versus-realist debate has occupied a central place in the Indian philosophical tradition since classical times. Although many books deal with different aspects of Indian philosophy, no work until now has been exclusively devoted to a thorough, systematic, and critical treatment of this debate. This book by Phillips (Univ. of Texas, Austin) thus fills a great need in the study of Indian philosophy. By concentrating on the works of the renowned 12th-century Advaitin dialectician Sriharsa and those of the Nyaya and Navya-Nyaya realists, it provides a clear and original exposition of the metaphysical arguments on both sides of the debate. The first two of the book's five chapters set the scene for the debate by providing a relevant and highly readable account of the earliest phases of Indian thought; the next two contain an illuminating presentation and discussion of the metaphysical arguments of the late classical period, with translations from the original texts; and the fifth and final chapter supplies annotated translations of selected passages within selected texts. The style throughout is clear and analytical, and translations are faithful and elegant. Philosophers, whether Indian or Western, seriously interested in the idealist-realist debate will find this work most rewarding. Excellent bibliography and most useful index. Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduate; graduate; faculty; general. R. Puligandla University of Toledo