Consciousness and the human mind: An inquiry into Indian psychological thought
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64171/JSRD.5.S2.166-171Keywords:
Indian psychology, Consciousness, Human mind, Selfhood, Mental regulation, Indian knowledge systemsAbstract
This study is focused on the exploration of the concept of human mind in terms of Indian psychological theories, especially concerning the difference between the human mind and consciousness. In addition, this paper considers the possibility of overcoming an egocentric paradigm of mind and developing a more complex view on concepts related to the self.
This study is based on a qualitative and interpretative research design grounded on the conceptual analysis, comparative approach and the interpretation of some classical texts including, Patañjali’s Yogasūtra, Bhagavad Gītā and recent scholarly literature. Main concepts under consideration are: multi-level model of the human mind, the essence of consciousness, role of ego, and ways of mind regulation.
This study reveals that Indian psychology provides a multi-level model of human mind that separates mental processes from witnessing aspect that is consciousness. Moreover, Indian psychologists view ego as a limited construct, emphasizing the necessity of ethical action along with disciplined practices in order to achieve mental balance and coherence, demonstrating the interrelated nature of various aspects such as emotional, experiential or cognitive.
It is concluded that Indian psychological approaches contribute significantly to the development of a holistic and comprehensive framework for comprehending the functioning of human mind and also provide basis for developing an integrative paradigm of studying psychological phenomena along with substantial significance in current debates about mental well-being and human development.
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