Pure Consciousness and Indian Buddhism
The Problem of Pure Consciousness March 29, 1990 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780195059809.003.0003 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractRecent philosophical debate examines whether a special type of consciousness—called pure, unmediated, or contentless consciousness—can exist. Steven Katz argues that such pure unmediated experience neither logically can nor actually occurs. This paper engages with that debate, discussing the possibility of consciousness without content or mediation.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Citations | 16 |
| Key finding | Reviews the philosophical debate surrounding the possibility of pure unmediated consciousness, focusing on responses to Steven Katz's argument that it cannot occur. |
Abstract
Abstract There has been a good deal of discussion in the philosophical journals recently about the possibility of a special type of consciousness.1 This special kind of consciousness is called, variously, pure consciousness, unmediated consciousness, contentless consciousness, and so forth. Much of the debate has taken place in response to Steven Katz’s attempt to show that such consciousness-which he calls pure unmediated experience (1978:26)-neither logically can nor as a matter of fact does occur.