Comparison, Identification and Suffering: A Vedanta 2.0 Model of Awareness and Human Freedom
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) June 19, 2026 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.20770071 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Vedanta Existentialism Consciousness Identification biology Self Cognition Identity music Free will Epistemology Incompatibilism Social identity theory Transpersonal Psychological theory Feminism |
| Key points | Proposes that comparison-based cognition increases subjective suffering and that awareness-based cognition (Bodh) reduces suffering independent of material conditions. |
Abstract
Description This paper introduces a conceptual framework within Vedanta 2.0 that explores the relationship between comparison, suffering, awareness, and human freedom. Drawing from modern psychology, Advaita Vedanta, and existential philosophy, the study proposes that a significant source of human psychological suffering arises not merely from external deprivation but from comparison-based consciousness. The paper develops two central hypotheses: (1) comparison-based cognition increases subjective suffering, and (2) awareness-based cognition (Bodh) reduces suffering independent of material conditions. Building upon Social Comparison Theory, hedonic adaptation research, mindfulness studies, and non-dual philosophical traditions, the work presents a novel Vedanta 2.0 pathway: Comparison → Psychological Suffering → Bodh → Freedom This model is contrasted with the classical Advaita Vedanta formulation: Avidyā → Bondage → Knowledge → Liberation A further contribution is the introduction of the 99+1 Model, a conceptual framework describing the relationship between worldly pursuits (99) and awareness (1). The study argues that awareness functions as the foundational dimension through which wealth, beauty, achievement, religion, and social identity are experienced without becoming sources of psychological bondage. This work is intended as a philosophical-psychological contribution to contemporary consciousness studies and serves as part of the broader Vedanta 2.0 research program integrating science, philosophy, and awareness. Keywords: Vedanta 2.0, Consciousness, Awareness, Bodh, Social Comparison, Psychology of Suffering, Advaita Vedanta, Human Freedom, Mindfulness, Philosophy of Consciousness, Non-Duality, Comparative Psychology.