Spontaneity of consciousness in Dzogchen philosophy

Abstract

This article examines the phenomenon of spontaneity of consciousness from the perspective of Dzogchen philosophy – one of the doctrines of Tibetan Buddhism. It views spontaneity as the initial and intrinsic, but at the same time latent quality of human consciousness. Liberation in Dzogchen, first and foremost, is related to person’s achievement of spontaneous state. It becomes possible through revelation and support of this state of mind. However, the method of achieving of this state, as well as such understanding of liberation drastically differ from many other traditions and ways of self-improvements, including those accepted in other schools of Buddhism. The goal of this article consists in determination of possible interpretations, as well as demonstrated importance of the concept of spontaneity in Dzogchen, its role in the philosophy and practices based on the traditional views of this doctrine. In the course of the research, comparison is conducted on comprehension of the problematic of spontaneity in Dzogchen and classical Western philosophical thought in the context of consideration of the question of spontaneity and freedom of Kant’s philosophy of mind, determining parallels and common grounds between them. The conclusion is made on substantial similarity in understanding of the qualities of human consciousness, possibilities of its freedom and ways towards its achievement.