A Brief Introduction to Hinduism: Religion, Philosophy, and Ways of Liberation

by A.L. Herman

In this lucid and incisive account of Hinduism, A. L. Herman introduces the reader to one of the great belief systems of our time. Professor Herman identifies three distinct Hindu traditions and treats both their historical roots—as far back as 2500.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction, Religion

204 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1991

Reviews

[ron btdtbttsawio · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very easy to read book that examines the history of Hinduism with three different approaches to the way various sacred texts are followed. The three practices are compared by looking at three modern sages: Ramana Maharshi, Mohandas Gandhi, and A.C. Bhaktivedanta.
There are also lots of charts, a section on how to pronounce Sanskrit terms, and an excellent glossary of terms at the back of the book.

[Dustin Chapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of taking a course on Eastern Philosophy from the author during his time at UWSP. This was one of the required textbooks for the course. Herman is a very knowledgeable, engaging, and enlightening teacher. A very approachable intro to the subject.

[Killiankarlsson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent breakdown and very approachable text to perhaps one of the most vast religions out there. This book has an excellent philosophic style that draws great parallels to other theologies as philosophies to help the reader. I feel as though I understand a little more about humanity, and this is just an intro!

[A.B. · Rating 2 out of 5]

This read like a philosophy paper, which it is. Herman was a philosophy prof at UW SP so that explains it. It was an i teresting read, it had too many opinions and uses of "I" for my taste.

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great introduction to Hinduism using three modern Hindu Yogis that embody three different strands within Hinduism which are based on three periods of its development. Read for a research paper. A page turner for sure.