A Concise Historiography of Classical Yoga Philosophy.
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) June 19, 2023 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.8055379 via OpenAlex
Summary
The article examines how the history of classical Yoga philosophy has been written, arguing that existing historiographies often impose Western periodization schemes that distort the indigenous development of Yoga thought. It traces the evolution of scholarly approaches from early Orientalist accounts through modern critical historiography, highlighting how assumptions about linear progress and religious vs. philosophical categories have shaped interpretations. The author advocates for a more nuanced, context-sensitive historiography that respects the internal logic and textual traditions of classical Yoga, particularly the Yoga Sūtras and their commentaries, without forcing them into alien frameworks.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Historiography Philosophy Epistemology Political science Law |
| Citations | 33 |
| Key finding | Existing historiographies of classical Yoga philosophy have been distorted by Western periodization and categorical assumptions, requiring a more context-sensitive approach that respects the tradition's own textual and conceptual frameworks. |
Abstract
A pre-print version of the article "A Concise Historiography of Classical Yoga Philosophy." In: Eli Franco (ed.), Periodization and Historiography of Indian Philosophy. Vienna: Sammlung de Nobili (Publications of the De Nobili Research Library, 37), p. 53–90.