What is 'Indian Philosophy?' - Dharma Traditions, Dharma Studies, and the Quest to Interpret South Asian Religions for Global Audiences

Indian philosophy is a rich and complex tapestry woven from diverse traditions and schools of thought that have evolved over millennia. At its core, Indian philosophy grapples with profound questions about existence, rebirth, knowledge, morality, and the nature of reality. Central to many of these philosophical traditions is the concept of Dharma, which plays a pivotal role in shaping ethical behavior, social order, and spiritual practice.

Understanding Dharma

Dharma is often translated as "duty," "righteousness," or "moral law." However, its meaning is nuanced and varies significantly across different texts and contexts. In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism—often referred to as the “Dharma traditions”—Dharma encompasses not only individual responsibilities but also universal principles that promote harmony and balance in society. For instance, the Bhagavad Gītā, a seminal text in Hindu philosophy, discusses Dharma extensively, particularly in the context of duty and moral choice. The verse emphasizing that "it is better to perform one’s own duties imperfectly than to master the duties of another" (Bhagavad Gītā 3.35) emphasizes the importance of adhering to one’s own Dharma.

That being said, the Gītā was in its original historical context not only a “spiritual” text but also a socio-political one meant to reinforce and maintain social hierarchies. And if we look close enough at the historical context in which any religious text was written (and this includes all philosophical traditions, Dharmic or not), we will see that every Dharma tradition was a product of its time, place, and social location, even as each tradition sought to provide guidance for how to escape rebirth from these social contexts. It is often what we perceive as “universal” teachings and practices within the so-called Dharma traditions that we cling to in our contemporary moment.

Dharma Traditions and Their Philosophical Foundations

The Dharma traditions are interwoven within the philosophical, religious, historical, and anthropological landscapes of South Asia, and Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism offer unique insights into the nature of existence and ethics.

The philosophical schools within Hinduism, such as Vedānta, Sāṃkhya, and Nyāya, explore concepts of brahman (ultimate reality), ātman/puruṣa (self), and prakṛti (nature). The texts of the Vedas, Upaniṣads, and the epics like the Mahābhārata and Rāmāyaṇa serve as primary sources for understanding Hindu thought.

Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), Buddhism offers a distinctive perspective on Dharma, particularly through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The concept of anātman (no-self) challenged traditional Brahmanical notions of the existence of an individual higher self (ātman), suggesting instead a fluid and impermanent understanding of identity and existence.

Jain philosophy, which maintains the existence of a self (jīva), emphasizes ahiṃsā (non-violence) as a central tenet of Dharma. Jain texts, such as the Tattvārthasūtra, provide detailed discussions on ethics, cosmology, and metaphysics, advocating for a path of spiritual liberation through right knowledge, right worldview, and right conduct.

Dharma Studies: An Academic Exploration

Dharma Studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the various manifestations and interpretations of Dharma across different South Asian religions. Scholars in this field aim to unpack the complexities of Dharma as both a philosophical and practical concept. This involves analyzing sacred texts, engaging in comparative studies, and exploring contemporary applications of Dharma in a global context.

One of the key objectives of Dharma Studies is to bridge the gap between traditional understandings of Dharma and contemporary ethical dilemmas faced by global audiences. For instance, discussions around environmental ethics, social justice, and interfaith dialogue are increasingly framed within the context of Dharma. The concept of Dharma as a guide for ethical living resonates across cultures, offering valuable perspectives on universal issues.

The Quest for Global Interpretation

As interest in Indian philosophy and Dharma traditions grows in a globalized world, scholars face the challenge of interpreting these concepts for diverse audiences. This involves not only translating ancient texts but also contextualizing them within modern frameworks, all the while remaining vigilant of the potential political implications of their academic work.

Scholars of Dharma traditions draw from various disciplines, including philosophy, history, religious studies, anthropology, and sociology, to provide a comprehensive understanding of Dharma. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a rich dialogue about the relevance of Dharma in contemporary society. Interpreting Dharma for global audiences requires sensitivity to cultural differences and the varied ways in which concepts are understood. It is essential to avoid oversimplification or misrepresentation of complex ideas, as well as for scholars to recognize their own social and political location.

By framing Dharma within the context of pressing global issues—for example climate change, human rights, and communal harmony—scholars highlight Dharma traditions’ relevance and applicability but also often avoid uncomfortable conversations around particularly well-known social justice issues. For instance, the notion of Dharma as environmental stewardship and supportive of animal rights can lead to meaningful discussions about sustainability and responsibility, though the issues of caste discrimination, gender inequality, and the harms of dairy, for example, are rarely if at all addressed. 

Conclusion: The Continuing Relevance of Indian Philosophy and Dharma Traditions

Indian philosophy, with its rich tapestry of Dharma traditions, offers profound insights into ethical living, social responsibility, and the nature of reality. As scholars engage in Dharma Studies and work to interpret these traditions for global audiences, they contribute to a deeper understanding of how ancient wisdom can inform contemporary challenges. 

Nevertheless, as we have seen, there are also areas that scholars of Dharma studies tend to avoid discussing, usually around social justice and animal rights issues. The reasons for this avoidance are often political, and thus Dharma Studies as an academic discipline also has opportunities to grow.

As we navigate our individual and collective complexities, the teachings of Indian philosophy nevertheless continue to contribute to critical conversations aimed toward building a more just society.