“The Aim of Indian Philosophy-An Overview”

Abstract

Philosophy in general is the intellectual interpretation and construction of reality. Man weaves different theories about it – some comforting him and others explaining his helplessness. To philosophize is the very nature of man. It is only animal that are not metaphysical according to Hegel. To the Indians philosophy is Athmavidya. Salvation is value of values and all other values are subordinate to it. Philosophy to them is a way of life and not a view of life. It originated under the pressure of a practical need arising from the presence of moral and physical evils in life. An escape from these is possible only through a sense of reality. Philosophy is an attempt to seek something permanent and avoid the flux of births and deaths. It helps us not merely to reveal truth but also to increase virtue. It awakens our loyalties. It extends our minds and taps our energies and helps to realise the vision of God. Hence Philosophy is pragmatic. It is saving knowledge and not subtle metaphysics.