नीतिशास्त्र की रुपरेखा (पाश्चात्य और भारतीय): Outlines of Ethics (Indian and Western)

नीतिशास्त्र की रुपरेखा (पाश्चात्य और भारतीय): Outlines of Ethics (Indian and Western)" by Ashok Kumar Verma is an extensive study of ethical theories and principles from both Indian and Western perspectives. The book aims to provide a comparative analysis of the ethical frameworks, highlighting their similarities, differences, and unique contributions to the field of moral philosophy.

Key Areas Covered in the Book:

Indian Ethics:

1. Vedic Ethics: Explores the ethical principles found in the Vedas, focusing on concepts like Rita (cosmic order), Dharma (duty/righteousness), and the importance of rituals.
2. Upanishadic Ethics: Discusses the philosophical teachings of the Upanishads, emphasizing self-realization, the nature of the self (Atman), and ultimate reality (Brahman).
3. Buddhist Ethics: Examines the moral teachings of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and principles like compassion (Karuna) and non-violence (Ahimsa).
4. Jain Ethics: Highlights the Jain ethical principles of non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), chastity (Brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (Aparigraha).
5. Bhagavad Gita: Analyzes the ethical teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on the concepts of Nishkama Karma (selfless action), Dharma (duty), and the path to liberation (Moksha).

Western Ethics:

1. Ancient Greek Ethics: Discusses the contributions of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, focusing on concepts like virtue ethics, the good life, and the role of reason in ethical decision-making.
2. Medieval Ethics: Explores the ethical teachings of Christian philosophers like Augustine and Thomas Aquinas, emphasizing divine command theory and natural law.
3. Modern Ethics: Examines the ethical theories of modern philosophers like Immanuel Kant (deontological ethics), Jeremy Bentham, and John Stuart Mill (utilitarianism).
4. Contemporary Ethics: Discusses contemporary ethical theories and issues, including existentialism, contractarianism, and discussions on human rights, justice, and equality.

Comparative Analysis:

The book provides a detailed comparative analysis, highlighting how Indian and Western ethical theories address similar moral questions but often approach them from different cultural and philosophical perspectives. It emphasizes the universality of certain ethical principles while also appreciating the unique contributions of each tradition.

By covering these diverse areas, the book serves as a comprehensive resource for students and scholars of ethics, philosophy, and comparative studies.