Non-Duality
Eastern philosophical concept that reality is fundamentally one, without subject-object division. Non-duality (Sanskrit: Advaita) teaches that the perceiver and perceived are not separate. The sense of individual self (ego) is illusion; true nature is universal consciousness. Prominent in Advaita Vedanta, Zen Buddhism, and Taoism. Non-dual awareness transcends conceptual thinking and experiences reality directly. Practices include self-inquiry ("Who am I?"), meditation, and recognizing awareness itself. Non-duality challenges Western dualistic thinking and offers liberation from suffering through recognition of one's true nature.
Your Reaction
Similar Philosophical Concept
Dualism
Metaphysical view that mind and body are distinct substances. Cartesian substance dualism: mind (res cogitans) …
The Tao
Central concept in Taoism representing the fundamental nature of the universe. The Tao is ineffable—it …
Emptiness
Buddhist concept that all phenomena lack inherent existence or fixed essence. Emptiness (Sanskrit: śūnyatā) doesn't …
Digital Dualism
Concept critiquing false separation between online and offline life. Jurgenson: augmented reality is norm—digital and …
Yin and Yang
Chinese philosophical concept of complementary opposites in constant dynamic balance. Yin represents feminine, dark, passive, …
Atman and Brahman
Hindu concepts of individual self (Atman) and ultimate reality (Brahman). Atman is the true self …
Existentialism
Philosophical movement emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and choice. Existentialism asserts that existence precedes essence—humans create …
Dharma
Hindu and Buddhist concept of cosmic order and individual duty. In Hinduism, dharma includes cosmic …
Explore Related Domains
Discover connections across different types of entities
Buddha
Indian spiritual teacher who founded Buddhism, teaching the path to liberation from suffering. Buddha's Four …
Lao Tzu
Ancient Chinese philosopher traditionally credited with writing the Tao Te Ching, foundational text of Taoism. …
Consciousness Explained
Dennett's ambitious work offers a materialist theory of consciousness, rejecting the idea of an inner …
The Art of Happiness
The Dalai Lama and psychiatrist Cutler explore Buddhist principles for achieving happiness. Through compassion, mindfulness, …
Jiddu Krishnamurti
Indian philosopher and speaker who rejected organized religion while exploring consciousness and meditation. Krishnamurti's emphasis …
Buddha on thought and being
Buddha on thought and being
The Taboo Against Knowing Who You Are
Watts's accessible work explores the illusion of the separate self, arguing that we are inseparable …
Buddha
Prince who renounced wealth to seek enlightenment, founding Buddhism. Buddha's discovery of the Middle Way …