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hierarchical-vision

The Advaitic ordering of human experience into qualitatively distinct levels, with Brahman realization as superior to phenomenal consciousness.

1 chapter across 1 book

Consciousness in Advaita Vedanta (1980)William M. Indich

CHAPTER V

This chapter critically evaluates the Advaitic theory of consciousness, focusing on the radical ontological discontinuity between absolute and modified consciousness. It highlights the dilemma of bridging the gap between phenomenal experience and transcendental realization, the hierarchical yet paradoxical relationship between these levels, and the inherent limitations of conceptualizing the non-dual absolute. The Advaitin's position is defended despite acknowledged philosophical tensions and the concession that ultimate reality transcends linguistic and conceptual frameworks.