Philosophy of Mysticism: Raids on the Ineffable

by Richard H. Jones

This work is a comprehensive study of the philosophical issues raised by mysticism. Mystics claim to experience reality in a way not available in normal life, a claim which makes this phenomenon interesting from a philosophical perspective. Richard H. Jones s inquiry focuses on the skeleton of beliefs and values of knowledge claims made about the nature of reality and of human beings; value claims about what is significant and what is ethical; and mystical goals and ways of life. Jones engages language, epistemology, metaphysics, science, and the philosophy of mind. Methodological issues in the study of mysticism are also addressed. Examples of mystical experience are drawn chiefly from Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta, but also from Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Daoism.

Genres: Philosophy, Mysticism, Esoterica, Spirituality

438 pages, Hardcover

Published May 1, 2016

Reviews

[Seekers of Unity · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Jones’ second work on the same subject, which is bringing philosophical analysis to bear on a range on philosophical issues in mysticism, language, ineffability, metaphysical claims, ethics etc.. I wonder how this work differs from his first and why he felt the need to rewrite it. His approach is, rightfully so, is that of a philosophical sceptic and finds mysticism wanting in many claims, but one wonders whether such a subject can be done justice by so critical an approach and whether perhaps as with a great work of art on must refine themselves to the point of being open to its grandeur, to open ones eyes and ear before opening ones mouth and saying meh this Mozart/Bach/Beethoven/Vivaldi is horrible music, turn the Nickelback back on.

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[Nick Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate Jones' effort and his clarity of thinking. However, there are some places where he could be more specific about who/which mystics he is speaking of, rather than the generic "classical mystics" who all believe "X" (when there exist numerous counterexamples of classical mystics). He seems to relativize his study toward the end, and to open a space for the idea of an evolution or development of mysticism within changing cultural environments, but I wish he had applied the same treatment to his historical examples, which are themselves culturally situated, and preceded by different forms of mysticism as well as followed by new developments.

[Rita Vill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this book for a class. Very informative about the mystical experience. Although very heavy reading. The author takes on you on many twists and turns when explaining thoroughly the differing views of mystical experiences. It seemed a little dizzying sometimes but suppose this is the nature of reading academic type books.

Overall, felt I came away with a very good idea about varying mystical experiences ranging from religious to non-religious.