Darshanshastra Ke Srot

Different people from different periods have contributed to the mainstream of world philosophy in their own ways, whether positive or negative. This mainstream is intertwined with numerous streams, and this series of eight books has been prepared to introduce the general reader to them. This book by Prof. Deviprasad Chattopadhyay is the first in this series. Mr. Chattopadhyay is the chief editor of this series and also the author of the book titled Sources of Philosophy. Therefore, this book serves as a prelude to the entire series. In this book, as the title suggests, he explores the sources of philosophy and lays the foundation for inculcating the culture of reading and understanding the subsequent books in the series. Beginning with Why is Philosophy Necessary?, he considers the gradual evolution of primitive man. Then, highlighting the beginning of the division of labor in society, the urban revolution, and the role of religion in life, he considers the question of how philosophy originated and developed. Throughout this discussion, readers also gain a brief introduction to the worlds ancient systems of thought. Professor Chattopadhyay here questions the claim that Thales was the first scientist. He does so by discussing the passage in the Chandogya Upanishad about Uddalaka Aruni. According to him, given Uddalaka Arunis clear inclination towards science, a serious review of the history of world science is necessary. Needless to say, this book, inspired by Professor Chattopadhyays social vision and intellectual neutrality, will be of interest not only to scholars of philosophy but also to readers just beginning their study.