The Philosophy of the Yogasutra: An Introduction

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Karen O'Brien-Kop's introduction to the Yogasutra highlights its status as a significant work of philosophy. Approaching the Yogasutra as living philosophy, this book elucidates philosophical conceptions of yoga, recognises the logical structure the sutras follow and explains the rules and principles that have sustained Patajalis system of thought for centuries. Moving beyond standard interpretations of Patajali's text and commentary as an aphoristic practice manual, O'Brien-Kop uses branches of philosophy to read the Yogasutra. Covering reality, self, ethics, language and knowledge, Patajalis philosophies come to the fore. The book introduces his reasoned positions on dual and nondual metaphysics, the relationship between mind and body, the qualities of consciousness, the nature of freedom, and how to live ethically. Carefully-selected extracts from the primary text are translated for those unfamiliar with Sanskrit and commentaries run throughout. A glossary provides definitions of key concepts with useful translations. Accessible and up-to-date, this introduction broadens our understanding of Indian philosophical thought and explains why the Yogasutra deserves to be read alongside Parmenides On Nature and Platos Phaedo as a classic of world philosophy.

Reviews

The Philosophy of the Yogasutra by Karen O'Brien-Kop offers an insightful analysis of various philosophical arguments presented by Patajali. Her critical examination of recent discussions of Patajalis philosophy around various topics of contemporary relevance will definitely help to position yoga philosophy as a serious interlocutor in global philosophical conversations. * Ana Laura Funes, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Eastern Connecticut State University, USA *
OBrien-Kops claim that Yoga is a system of living, breathing philosophy (not just an historical artefact) rings true in this fine book. This refreshing study succeeds in many waysabove all, it brings Patajalis text into dialogue with contemporary philosophical debates. The Philosophy of the Yogasutra belongs on the reading list of yoga practitioners and scholars alike. * Geoffrey Ashton, Associate Professor of Philosophy, University of San Francisco, USA *
Karen OBrien-Kops The Philosophy of the Yogasutra is a much-needed book that presents the Patajalayogasastra as a work of philosophy. Such is an aspect that is often overlooked. The books thematic presentation of the philosophy of the Patajalayogasastra should help even those who are untrained in Indian philosophy grasp it. * Kengo Harimoto, Research Associate, University of Naples LOrientale, Italy *

Author Bio

Karen OBrien-Kop is Lecturer in Asian Religions at Kings College London, UK. She is co-chair of the 'Indian and Chinese Religions in Dialogue' unit of the American Academy of Religion (AAR), is co-convenor of the Spalding Symposium on Indian Religions and a co-editor of the academic journal Religions of South Asia.