Co-authored Book
Moonshadows: Conventional Truth and Buddhist Philosophy
Abstract: The
doctrine of the two truths—a conventional truth and an
ultimate truth—is central to Buddhist metaphysics and
epistemology. The two truths (or two realities), the
distinction between them, and the relation between them is
understood variously in different Buddhist schools; it is
of special importance to the Madhyamaka school. One of the
most influential interpretations of this doctrine derives
from the commentary of Candrakirti (sixth century CE).
This book, the product of years of collaboration by ten
cowherds engaged in philosophy and Buddhist studies,
provides this analysis. The book asks, “What is true about
conventional truth?” and “What are the implications of an
understanding of conventional truth for our lives?” This
book begins with a philosophical exploration of classical
Indian and Tibetan texts articulating Candrakirti’s view
and uses this textual exploration as a basis for a more
systematic philosophical consideration of the issues
raised by his account.