Thirty-Five Oriental Philosophers is an introduction to the several philosophical traditions usually referred to as oriental. There is a growing interest in eastern thought in the West, but there is no single book, which offers a comprehensive overview of the whole terrain within a manageable compass. 'Thirty-Five Oriental Philosophers' fills this gap by close analysis of the key works of central figures in the traditions concerned: those of Zoroastrianism, Islam, India, Tibet, China and Japan, ranging from the earliest times to the present day. The book is composed of essays on individual philosophers, outlining the central themes of their philosophy, with lists of their major works and suggestions for further reading. The philosophers chosen are of central importance to the tradition concerned and regularly figure in courses on eastern philosophy, religion or culture.
Each major section is prefaced by a short sub-introduction, which indicates the place of the philosopher in the tradition concerned, and indicates how the various traditions have interacted over time. Areas with specially high profile in the West such as Islam and Zen receive extended treatment. Philosophical difficulties associated with each position are discussed. References to parallel ideas in the Western philosophical tradition are indicated as they occur. A glossary of key philosophical term is provided.
The book will be extremely useful to undergraduate students on courses dealing with any aspect of oriental culture.