Buddhist physicalism? Non-self metaphysics and phenomenal consciousness
British Journal for the History of Philosophy June 30, 2026 DOI: 10.1080/09608788.2026.2681880 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe Cārvākas, an ancient Indian school of philosophy, defended an early form of materialism. Their views are contrasted with other philosophical traditions of the time, particularly those that posited non-material substances or a soul. The text examines the Cārvāka arguments and their place in the broader intellectual landscape of ancient India.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Buddhism |
| Keywords | Consciousness Metaphysics Buddhist philosophy Subjectivity |
| Key finding | Argues that the Cārvāka school of materialism has been historically misrepresented and that its empiricist epistemology represents a sophisticated philosophical position. |
Abstract
One of the many schools of philosophy that populated the variegated intellectual landscape of ancient India was that of the Cārvākas, who defended an early form of materialism.1 The Cārvākas were h...