Philosophy 215 (World Religions): Essay Topics 3

Compare and contrast the Sankhya and Vedanta (especially Advaita) schools with respect to their conception of reality.  How do their differences relate to the debate over whether or not the effect pre-exists the cause.  Which side do you find more convincing?  Why?

How does Nyaya epistemology (theory of knowledge) relate to Vaisheshika metaphysics, especially in relation to the category of substance?  How is it possible for us to know the existence of immaterial substances, for example, the self?  How is it possible to have a self and still attain moksha, especially since this seems to require the extinction of consciousness?

How does the bodhisattva ideal of Mahayana Buddhism relate to the idea that “form is emptiness, emptiness is form”?  How do you think this is connected to Nagarjuna’s refutation of self-existent causes?  What are the ethical implications of this view?  How does Nagurjuna connect emptiness to the fullness of existence?  Do you think he is successful?  Why or why not?

Explain why Buddhists maintain that ignorance is ultimately the root of all suffering.  Give 3 or 4 examples to illustrate some of the 12 conditions of suffering, and explain by reference to their corresponding symbol on the wheel of becoming why this is so.  Do you agree that mindfulness will lead to wisdom and compassion?  Why or why not?  How is mindfulness related to meditation in Zen Buddhism, where the goal is sometimes described as losing one’s mind?

Trace the development of the neo-Confucian identification of Li with the Great Ultimate (or Dao)—especially as the formal principle that gives shape to Chi—and how Zhu Xi in turn identifies the Great Ultimate with Ren.  How does this conceptual evolution reflect the debate around whether or not human beings are naturally good?