Enlightenment East and West

Book Details:

• Author: Leonard Angel

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 1995

• ISBN: 9788170304746

• Pages: 398

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 22.5 cm x 14.5 cm

• Weight: 550 gm

Book Description:

Back of the Book:

This book explores the interplay between mysticism and scientific rationalism, arguing that both need each other for a more complete understanding of the world. It examines cross-cultural ethics, the theory of knowledge, metaphysics, mysticism, and various other social and political concepts, blending spirituality and science. The author discusses themes such as parapsychology, patriarchy, and the influence of mysticism on societal and political history.

Ronald de Sousa from the University of Toronto writes, "To anyone who has thought vaguely about the contrasting ideals of ideological East and West, this will be an enormously exciting book." Leonard Angel's work offers a comprehensive, clearly articulated examination of the contradictions between reason and mysticism, proposing that each tradition enriches the other. Julia Ching from the University of Toronto and Robert M. Garvin from the State University of New York at Albany also praise the book for its timely and insightful contributions to discussions on mysticism, ethics, and philosophy.

Preface:

This book is written for a diverse audience: specialists and non-specialists alike. It caters to students of religion, culture, and philosophy, postmodernists, and mystics. The author engages with a variety of topics such as the integration of social humanism with mysticism, paranormal psychology, and the search for clarity in religious and mystical traditions. It is particularly relevant for those seeking to reconcile contrasting value systems and understand the evolving role of mysticism in human experience.

Angel argues that the apparent divide between mysticism and scientific rationalism is not as insurmountable as many believe. Through the chapters, he explores a relational ethical framework that can facilitate dialogue between diverse cultural and spiritual traditions. He emphasizes the importance of mysticism in value theory and ethics, asserting that mystics' experiences offer crucial insights into the nature of reality and ethics.

The book also examines how mysticism can be understood and practiced by non-mystics, offering a clear and logical presentation of mystical training. The author discusses the relevance of mystical experiences in metaphysics, the intuition of the sacred in ethics, and the potential of mystical perspectives to inform and reshape modern philosophical and political views.

Angel asserts that mysticism is not an "otherworldly" pursuit but can be integrated with worldly social visions. He also tackles paranormal phenomena, offering startling insights into the relationship between mysticism, science, and the paranormal. Finally, Angel argues that the integration of mysticism into the Western Enlightenment project is essential for its fulfillment and progress.

Through this work, Angel contributes significantly to the ongoing dialogue between mysticism, science, ethics, and philosophy, offering a thoughtful and comprehensive synthesis of the two seemingly opposing traditions.