Elangbam Ushapati Devi
Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Philosophy, Dhanamanjuri University, Imphal, Manipur, India
E-mail: ushapatielangbam123@gmail.com
Issue: Volume 2 No. 2 (June 2026) Anubodhan
Received: 16 June 2026 / Accepted: 28 June 2026 / Published: 30 June 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.65885/anubodhan.v2n2.2026.071
Abstract
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan occupies a significant position in modern Indian philosophy for his endeavour to reconcile the philosophical dialogue between Eastern and Western traditions. During the colonial period, cultural conflict and intellectual misunderstanding were at its peak. Radhakrishnan aimed to elucidate Indian philosophy in a manner that would be intelligible to the modern Western world while at the same time preserving its spiritual essence. This paper examines Radhakrishnan’s comparative philosophy with the interpretation of Eastern spirituality and Western rationalism. Eastern thought is characterised by its emphasis on spiritual intuition of the ultimate reality through inner experience. In contrast, Western thought is distinguished by its commitment to rational enquiry, scientific investigation, and critical analysis of human experience. It also explores how he sought to synthesize the spiritual insights of the East with the scientific and rational spirit of the West, where he aims to develop a universal and humanistic philosophy. Through systematic analysis and comparative inquiry, the paper studies Radhakrishnan’s major philosophical writings and evaluates his contribution to intercultural understanding and comparative philosophy. The paper further analyses the strengths and limitations of his philosophical approach by underscoring its contemporary significance in the global context by exemplifying its cultural tensions, religious conflicts, and ethical crises. The study proposes that Radhakrishnan’s comparative philosophy continues to offer significant insights for fostering dialogue, tolerance, and cultural harmony in modern society.
Keywords: Comparative Philosophy; Eastern Thought; Western Thought; Cultural Harmony; Intercultural Dialogue
How to cite: Devi, E. U. (2026). Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Comparative Philosophy: An Inquiry into Eastern and Western Thought. Anubodhan, 2(2), 131–142. https://doi.org/10.65885/anubodhan.v2n2.2026.071