Course Content

The Shaddarshanas – Introduction to Hindu Philosophy course will commence with an overview of Indian philosophy, its history, and its cultural context in relation to the Veda and Upaniṣads. Through the study of Darśana Śāstra, the epistemological, metaphysical, and ethical theories of each school of philosophy will be critically reviewed, and their major differences will be compared and contrasted.

By learning the Darśana Śāstra, we can delve into the Hindu philosophical tradition, which comprises a plethora of rigorous philosophical dialogues. These dialogues are undogmatic and open to different pathways and approaches in the pursuit of knowledge. The goal of this course is to understand and explore different philosophical approaches to concepts such as change, causation, creation, God, karma, Ātman, and Brahman.

Although each of the nine schools of philosophy has its unique approach and analysis of reality, their common goal is to overcome human suffering and attain Mokṣa, Nirvāṇa, or Kaivalya. This course will have three major components of learning:

1. Reading and comprehending the literature.
2. Engaging in contemplation, analysis, and discussion-based activities.
3. Presenting and writing about one’s understanding in the form of a paper presentation.

Through this course, students will explore the metaphysical, epistemological, ontological, and ethical arguments proposed by the nine traditions of philosophy in India. It will help them understand the philosophical undercurrents of ancient Hindu civilization.