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14.1 The concept of Dharma across Indian philosophical traditions

2 min readLast Updated on July 25, 2024

Dharma, a central concept in Indian philosophy, encompasses cosmic order, moral duty, and righteous living. Its multifaceted nature permeates various schools of thought, shaping understanding of reality and guiding personal conduct.

Different philosophical traditions interpret dharma uniquely, from Vedic ritual duties to Buddhist ethical paths. It impacts individual and societal well-being, regulating life's aims and offering insights into modern ethical challenges like environmental sustainability and human rights.

Understanding Dharma in Indian Philosophy

Concept of Dharma

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  • Core meaning encompasses cosmic order, moral duty, and righteous living
  • Etymology stems from Sanskrit "dhṛ" meaning to hold or maintain
  • Significance permeates various schools of thought as foundational principle for reality and conduct
  • Multifaceted nature includes religious duty, social obligations, and personal ethics

Interpretations across philosophical schools

  • Vedic and Upanishadic views emphasize ritual duties, gradually shifting to ethical dimensions
  • Buddhist Dhamma centers on Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path (Right View, Right Intention)
  • Jain interpretation focuses on inherent nature of reality and non-violence (ahimsa)
  • Hindu schools vary: Mimamsa stresses ritual action, Vedanta sees path to Brahman, Yoga emphasizes spiritual liberation
  • Interpretations differ in ritual vs ethical focus, individual vs social orientation, metaphysical vs practical applications

Dharma's impact on well-being

  • Individual: guides personal conduct, cultivates virtues (compassion, honesty), fosters spiritual growth
  • Societal: framework for social harmony, shapes institutions (caste system, marriage customs)
  • Interconnects individual (Svadharma) and societal duties
  • Regulates four aims of life: Artha (wealth), Kama (pleasure), Dharma (duty), Moksha (liberation)

Relevance in modern ethics

  • Contributes holistic approach to morality, emphasizing duty and collective well-being
  • Challenges include adapting to modern contexts (technological ethics, globalization)
  • Environmental ethics: applies cosmic order to ecological balance (reverence for nature, sustainable practices)
  • Business ethics: balances profit with righteousness (corporate social responsibility, ethical leadership)
  • Human rights: explores compatibility with Dharmic perspectives (universal dignity, duty-based approach)
  • Critical perspectives address cultural relativism and universality of Dharmic principles


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© 2025 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
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