Viveka and VairÀgya: Empirical Possibilities for Cognitive Concepts in Indian Psychology

By : Shilpa Ashok Pandit

Page No: 497-507

Abstract
The aim of this paper is to present a case for Indian cognitive concepts, which are amenable to neuro-cognitive measurements. Underlying the unique Indian psychology framework, consciousness is a central concept, cognition is instrumental in not only recognising this essential reality but also living a dhÀrmic life. Since, cognition has a dual purpose- one to recognise the true nature of self and two to enact and transact ethically in the world, cognition can be amenable to empirical measurement in terms of neuro-cognitive correlates. Towards this aim, the paper first lays out the meta-theoretical assumptions of Indian Psychology and identifies two key concepts and constructs-Viveka and VaÁrÀgya that are amenable to neurocognitive investigation. The paper elucidates these two concepts and suggests research designs and hypotheses. Implications for social policy are discussed.

Authors :
Shilpa Ashok Pandit : Associate Professor – School of Philosophy, Psychology and Scientific Heritage, Chinmaya Vishwavidyapeeth, Veliyanad, Kochi, Kerala.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JPR.2020.15.02.12