142104 UE Readings in Buddhist epistemology and logic (introductory) (2021W)

This course introduces into the history, literature and ideas of a philosophical tradition within Indian Buddhism that concentrated its efforts on knowledge and reasoning. This tradition claims as its founding figures Dignāga (ca. 480–540 CE) and Dharmakīrti (between mid 6th and mid 7th centuries CE) and is also often referred to as the logico-epistemological school or pramāṇa school (based on the central concept of a source of knowledge). Its ideas and methods proved influential in medieval Indian Buddhism. They were also adapted in Tibetan Buddhism and shaped philosophical analysis especially in the Sa skya pa and Dge lugs pa schools.
Pramāṇa authors also engaged intensely in critical discussion and confrontation with brahminical and Jaina philosophical traditions. Knowledge of the pramāṇa school’s ideas and history thus facilitates an understanding of Buddhism’s place in the medieval Indian intellectual environment, as well as of Tibetan intellectual history.

The course begins with two introductory sessions (lectures). The remainder is organized according to key topics. Students will be introduced to ideas and terminology based on close reading of key passages (in Sanskrit and in Tibetan translation) from pramāṇa literature. The language of instruction is English; German terminology will also be discussed. The course will be held digitally via Zoom, further technical tools will be discussed with participants in class.