Written by Richard Osborne,
Illustrated / designed by Borin Van Loon
Eastern philosophy is the most ancient form of thought
known to man,
predating
Western philosophy by some centuries. Dissatisfaction with materialism
is
turning Westerners towards the integrated approach of Eastern thought,
but
often in a vague and generalized form.
Introducing Eastern Philosophy focuses on India and China, the two
oldest
and most influential origins of Eastern thought. It elucidates the
complex
schools of Hindu philosophy, the offshoots of Indian Buddhism, the
traditions
of Confucius and the Tao in China and demonstrates their fundamental
differences
from Western notions of truth. It makes clear the Eastern view of
ultimate
reality, the emphasis on selfless ethics and the quest for
Enlightenment
and shows how these ideas are set in a cosmic whole in contrast to the
Western
individual and scientific perspective.
Drawing heavily on the iconography of Eastern Philosophy as well as my
ecclectic
mix of images and illustration, this title delves into ancient mystics,
Chinese prophets and Buddhism. It's an elusive subject, but seen as a
companion-piece
to my own Introducing Buddha,
this volume provides an accessible overview. One Zen Master when asked
the
meaning of Zen said:
I raise my eyebrows,
I move my eyes.
Perhaps that's all that needs to be said.
The author Richard Osborne has his own website, see Links.
Reviews
"...and that for his own good, he will one day make the
effort to pick
up an elementary book on hindu philosophy and improve his own
understanding...
(I have found a good one - 'ancient eastern philosophy for beginners'
published
by icon books, by richard osborne and borin van loon.. it is
illustrated
with interesting pictures and photographs for easy comprehension...)"
(www.hindunet.com/forum (HinduNet))
