Ken Wheeler ON ANATTAANATMAN in fact and doctrine. Against modern Buddhism.pdf (206.2 KB)
Introduction to the Book
On Anatta/Anatman in Fact and Doctrine: Against Modern So-Called Buddhism’s Non-Doctrinal Insanity by Ken Wheeler is a meticulous critique of modern interpretations of the Buddhist concept of “anatta” (non-self). Wheeler argues that contemporary Buddhism has distorted the original teachings of the Buddha, reducing profound metaphysical truths into nihilistic and materialistic misconceptions. He aims to restore the proper understanding of “anatta” as a methodological teaching tool rather than a denial of the eternal Self (atman).
About the Author
Ken Wheeler is an independent scholar and metaphysician whose works frequently challenge mainstream interpretations of ancient philosophical and religious traditions. Known for his provocative critiques of modern Buddhism, Wheeler’s analyses often draw upon his deep engagement with primary texts, particularly the Pali Canon.
Key Themes and Concepts
1. The Misinterpretation of Anatta
- Wheeler critiques modern Buddhist sects, particularly Theravada, for interpreting “anatta” as a denial of the Self (atman).
- He asserts that “anatta” was used by the Buddha to indicate what the Self is not, specifically rejecting identification with impermanent aggregates (skandhas).
2. The Via Negativa Methodology
- Wheeler aligns “anatta” with the “via negativa” (neti-neti) approach in Indian and Western metaphysics, which identifies truth by negating what it is not.
- This method, Wheeler claims, is foundational to understanding the Self as distinct from the impermanent phenomena of the empirical world.
3. The Self (Atman) as the Luminous Essence
- Wheeler argues that the Buddha’s teachings implicitly affirm the existence of an eternal, luminous Self.
- He contrasts this with modern Buddhist nihilism, which denies the existence of any ontological Self, reducing spiritual teachings to moralistic empiricism.
4. Anatta in the Pali Canon
- Wheeler provides extensive analysis of canonical passages where “anatta” appears, emphasizing its context as an adjective describing impermanent phenomena.
- He highlights key passages, such as Samyutta Nikaya 3.196, to demonstrate that the Buddha never explicitly denied the Self but instead negated identification with impermanent aggregates.
5. The Fallacy of Modern Secular Buddhism
- Wheeler critiques secular and modern interpretations of Buddhism for reducing it to a materialistic framework devoid of metaphysical depth.
- He argues that this trend ignores the Pali Canon’s affirmations of the immortal Self and the path to transcendence.
6. Parallels with Vedanta
- Wheeler draws comparisons between the Buddha’s use of “anatta” and the Vedantic method of distinguishing between atman and anatman.
- He suggests that the Buddha’s teachings are not fundamentally opposed to Vedanta but share a common metaphysical foundation.
Structure and Highlights
Chapter 1: Anatta and the Doctrine of the Self
- Explains the proper contextual use of “anatta” in the Pali Canon.
- Debunks the notion that “anatta” implies a doctrine of “no-Soul.”
Chapter 2: The Empirical Self and the Eternal Self
- Differentiates between the transient, psycho-physical self (skandhas) and the eternal, unconditioned Self.
- Discusses the Buddha’s teachings on liberation as the realization of the eternal Self beyond aggregates.
Chapter 3: Canonical Evidence Against Nihilism
- Wheeler presents textual evidence from the Pali Canon to refute the idea that Buddhism advocates nihilism.
- Key passages are analyzed to demonstrate the Buddha’s affirmation of a transcendent Self.
Chapter 4: The Role of Metaphysical Negation
- Explores how “anatta” functions as a negation of false identification rather than an ontological statement.
- Discusses the philosophical parallels with Advaita Vedanta and Neoplatonism.
Chapter 5: Modern Buddhism’s Errors
- Critiques the reductionist tendencies of modern Buddhism, which equate “anatta” with nihilism.
- Examines how this misunderstanding undermines the spiritual depth of the Buddha’s teachings.
Conclusion
Wheeler’s On Anatta/Anatman in Fact and Doctrine is a bold and uncompromising defense of the original Buddhist doctrine as preserved in the Pali Canon. By dismantling modern misconceptions and restoring the metaphysical depth of “anatta,” Wheeler offers a transformative perspective on the Buddha’s teachings. This book is an essential read for scholars, practitioners, and anyone seeking to understand the true essence of Buddhist philosophy.