Indian philosophy and its influence on modern thought
July 15, 2026 DOI: 10.66483/jsp.2026.001.ch30 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractIndian philosophical principles such as non-dualism (Advaita Vedanta), karma, ahimsa (non-violence), and dharma (duty/righteousness) have shaped contemporary discussions in ethics, spirituality, science, and politics globally. The paper argues that Indian philosophy's emphasis on interconnection resonates with modern spiritual seekers and thinkers, promoting holistic awareness and spiritual development. It highlights contributions by Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore, and Sri Aurobindo in disseminating these ideas. The authors contend that Indian philosophy provides insights into reality, ethics, and human existence, offering a holistic framework for addressing contemporary issues.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Topics | Buddhism |
| Keywords | Indian philosophy Swami Consciousness Eastern philosophy |
| Key finding | Argues that Indian philosophical traditions, including non-dualism, karma, ahimsa, and dharma, continue to influence modern thought in ethics, spirituality, science, and politics, providing a holistic framework for contemporary concerns. |
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate the significant impact that Indian philosophy has had on contemporary thought, focusing on the ways in which it has impacted the spiritual, scientific, and socio-political landscapes around the world. Non-dualism (Advaita Vedanta), karma, ahimsa (non-violence), and dharma (duty/righteousness) are some of the Indian philosophical principles that have made their way into current conversations in the fields of ethics, spirituality, science, and politics. One of the defining characteristics of Indian philosophy is its emphasis on interconnection, which has struck a chord with contemporary spiritual searchers and thinkers, hence promoting holistic awareness and increased spiritual development. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact that Indian philosophy has had on contemporary science, specifically in the fields of consciousness studies and holistic health approaches. Additionally, the paper highlights the contributions that thinkers such as Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore, and Sri Aurobindo have made to the dissemination of Indian philosophical ideas across the world. The conclusion of the study is that the rich traditions of Indian philosophy continue to affect modern thought. These traditions provide insights into reality, ethics, and the existence of humans, as well as a holistic framework for tackling contemporary concerns. Indian philosophy, with its long and varied traditions, has had a significant impact on modern thought, shaping the spiritual, scientific, and socio-political landscapes all over the world. Non-dualism (Advaita Vedanta), karma, ahimsa (non-violence), and dharma (duty/righteousness) are some of the key ideas that have emerged as a result of India's intellectual history. These ideas have had an impact on contemporary discussions in the fields of ethics, spirituality, science, and politics.