Bridging Minds: Psychoanalysis and the Indian Knowledge System
International Journal of Interdisciplinary Approaches in Psychology November 18, 2025 Manoj Kumar Mallick, Alka Mallick
This paper argues that Western psychoanalysis and Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) can be brought into a complementary, culturally attuned dialogue. It maps psychoanalytic concepts such as unconscious processes, repression, and ego dynamics onto IKS concepts including citta, samskara, ahamkara, and avidya. While psychoanalysis focuses on intrapsychic conflict and ego strengthening, IKS locates suffering in metaphysical misidentification and prescribes contemplative practices. The paper surveys Vedanta, Samkhya, Yoga, Buddhism, and Ayurveda, highlighting convergences and divergences. Adopting a hermeneutic methodology, it cautions against superficial appropriation and advocates for integrative therapeutic pathways combining insight-oriented work with mindfulness, breath regulation, and embodied discipline.