INDIAN PSYCHOLOGY – An experiential approach by Neeltje Huppes

INDIAN PSYCHOLOGY – An experiential approach (2017) by Neeltje Huppes, Indian Psychology Institute, Puducherry, p 176

 

When we look at general human behaviour, we tend to compare individuals on the basis of region, culture and ethnicity.  The approach of an Indian is found to be much different than that of an American. There seem to be a view on the West and the Rest kind of classification which is vague and calls for revisiting.  India as a geography and culture is much different from Europe or other parts of the world.

 

The book is a brief text on Indian Psychology providing an overview touching upon different dimensions.  As believed, Indian Psychology is considered to be based on holistic consciousness and this text divided in four sections and sixteen chapters encapsulates core surrounding issues nicely.  The development of cognitive faculties depends on the belief system on one side and the fire (within) to discover self in the given environment on the other side.  This is the foundation of formation of perception.

 

The book is written from the conception of omnipresent consciousness and explains it through the narratives of Vedas and Upanishads.  The concept of sat-chit-anand as depicted and explained in the Upanishads has been brilliantly narrated in the text which is considered to be inherent part of vedanta philosophy.  In the description the author has put rigor in simplifying the concept for the understanding of the students. It is reflected throughout the text which makes this title riveting and easy. 

 

In the Indian philosophical thinking there are three gunas, viz., sattva, rajas, and tamas. These are well explained as essential modes of nature through examples in Bhagavad Gita. Self reflection and observation have contributed towards forging the base of Indian psychology and makes a sound case of integral psychology as the author views.  Prana (vital), Manas (mind), antaratma (soul), and ahamkara (ego) have been explained in different chapters through text and exercises.  

 

I liked the format of the book which briefly discusses the concept in the text and at places through pictures as well and provides additional readings and exercises towards the end of each chapter.  Links to the web and visuals are provided in the text for substantiating and supplementing reading experience. A rich Online companion to the book is also provided for easy access for readers.  The appendix on Fear is an excellent depiction of the nuances.  Annotated bibliography of books provided towards the end is a good guide for students interested in further exploring this domain. 

 

Overall Indian psychology as believed, preached and practiced by Sri Aurobindo inundating integral psychology is narrated in the volume. The students shall surely be enriched by the text and would have better understanding of Indian psychology after going through this brief volume.