The Philosophy of the Yogasutra : An Introduction Paperback / softback

by Karen O'Brien-Kop

Part of the Bloomsbury Introductions to World Philosophies series

Paperback / softback

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Description

Karen O'Brien-Kop's introduction to the Yogasutra highlights its status as a significant work of philosophy.

Approaching the Yogasutra as living philosophy, this book elucidates philosophical conceptions of yoga, recognises the logical structure the sutras follow and explains the rules and principles that have sustained PataÃ±jaliâ€™s system of thought for centuries. Moving beyond standard interpretations of PataÃ±jali's text and commentary as an aphoristic practice manual, O'Brien-Kop uses branches of philosophy to read the Yogasutra.

Covering reality, self, ethics, language and knowledge, PataÃ±jaliâ€™s philosophies come to the fore.

The book introduces his reasoned positions on dual and nonÂdual metaphysics, the relationship between mind and body, the qualities of consciousness, the nature of freedom, and how to live ethically. Carefully-selected extracts from the primary text are translated for those unfamiliar with Sanskrit and commentaries run throughout.

A glossary provides definitions of key concepts with useful translations.

Accessible and up-to-date, this introduction broadens our understanding of Indian philosophical thought and explains why the Yogasutra deserves to be read alongside Parmenidesâ€™ â€˜On Natureâ€™ and Platoâ€™s Phaedo as a classic of world philosophy.