Reviews
By Batakrishna Ghosh, Edward J. Thomas
Summary
The reviews section critiques several scholarly books. One review discusses “Ajñana” by G.R. Malkani, H. Das and T.M.P. Mahadevan, a collaborative work exploring the Vedantic concept of ignorance (ajñāna). The reviewer notes that each author defines ajñāna differently and that the book lacks a unified orthodox viewpoint. Malkani equates ajñāna with erroneous knowledge of reality, while others emphasise its inexplicability. The review criticises the authors for not addressing counterarguments from other philosophical systems and suggests that the problem of ajñāna cannot be solved by plausibility alone. Another review examines R.C. Chatterji’s study on Pāṇini as a poet, concluding that the verses attributed to Pāṇini in anthologies likely belong to a later rhetorician. A third review summarises a book on Śaṅkara-Vedanta, appreciating passages that show Śaṅkara did not deny the reality of the world but emphasised its manifestation of Brahman. Other brief reviews cover works on Buddhism, Jainism and archaeology, highlighting both strengths and shortcomings. Collectively, the reviews provide readers with critical assessments of recent publications in oriental studies.
Conclusion
The review section reflects the rigorous scholarly discourse of the time, offering balanced critiques that acknowledge contributions while pointing out methodological weaknesses. It underscores the need for clarity, engagement with opposing viewpoints and cautious interpretation of sources in philosophical and historical studies.