Book Description

Psychology, for the author, is a developing science which is considered to be a part of philosophy. Traditionally philosophy has included the branches of ontology, metaphysics, ethics and epistemology, but Shrii Shrii Anandamurtijii has expanded the scope of philosophy to include psychology and spiritual practices. In fact, this is one of the features which makes Ananda Marga spiritual philosophy unique.Regarding the scope of philosophy and psychology, in "Our Philosophical Treatise" (Tattva Kaomudii Part 2, 1969), the author writes: In Western philosophy there is no mention of spiritual practice, because Western philosophers had no opportunity to learn such a practice. The main reason is that, in the theology prevalent in the West, there is no concrete spiritual practice.According to general belief, psychology is a part of general science, and should therefore not be included as a part of philosophy. Thus psychology has been accepted as a branch of science in the West. But in Ananda Marga, psychology has been included as a part of philosophy. Moreover, according to Ananda Marga, the scope of psychology is wider than what is usually accepted by psychologists.Yoga psychology, though a part of philosophy, is also a science, but is not restricted to the materialistic paradigm which characterizes Western philosophy and psychology. It is the science by which spiritual aspirants can acquire knowledge and mastery of themselves in their quest for Self-realization. Knowledge of yoga psychology is essential for spiritual practices; without this knowledge, aspirants will not achieve success in their spiritual endeavours.