The Philosophy of Desire in the Buddhist Pali Canon

by David Webster

David Webster explores the notion of desire as found in the Buddhist Pali Canon. Beginning by addressing the idea of a 'paradox of desire', whereby we must desire to end desire, the varieties of desire that are articulated in the Pali texts are examined. A range of views of desire, as found in Western thought, are presented as well as Hindu and Jain approaches. An exploration of the concept of ditthi(view or opinion) is also provided, exploring the way in which 'holding views' can be seen as analogous to the process of desiring. Other subjects investigated include the mind-body relationship, the range of Pali terms for desire, and desire's positive spiritual value. A comparative exploration of the various approaches completes the work.

Genres: Buddhism, Philosophy

284 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

David Webster, born 21 Sept. 1968, is a lecturer of Religious studies at the University of Gloucestershire

MLitt. Univ. of Newcastle upon Tyne;
Ph.D Buddhist Philosophy

Reviews

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super helpful, good stuff :)

[Andy Febrico Bintoro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Philosophy of desire

This book aimed was to compare philosophy of desire in western and in India for further used to understand Pali Canon and other theology contains.