“To understand Tibetan philosophy one must take seriously the fundamental and irreconcilable differences among Tibetan teachers on what is the true Madhyamaka view of ultimate and conventional truths. In crystal-clear prose and scrupulously constructed arguments, Sonam Thakchoe’s work convincingly demonstrates the great richness and diversity found among Tibetan Madhyamikas. His evenhanded juxtaposition of Tsongkhapa and Gorampa brings us new understanding of each man’s views as these are cast in relief against the other’s. I welcome and recommend Thakchoe’s The Two Truths Debate as a wonderful contribution to Tibetan philosophy.”—Guy Newland, Central Michigan University, author of The Two Truths
“Dr. Thakchoe’s exploration of Nagarjuna’s philosophy and its development through the Indian and Tibetan commentarial tradition is exceptionally clear and precise. He demonstrates to us that it is both genuinely difficult to work out the details and ramifications of the doctrine of the two truths and genuinely rewarding to do so. He shows that the tradition of philosophical debate brought from India to Tibet is alive and well in the West. The Two Truths Debate is an invaluable resource for the Buddhist Studies community and for all those interested in Indian and Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.”—Jay L. Garfield, Professor of Philosophy, Smith College
“There are subtle but vigorously-debated differences between Tibetan teachers on the precise definitions of conventional and ultimate truth. And there is no doubt that philosophical debate on the two truths is alive and well in the West. This book, by a former monk who is now a full-time lecturer in Asian and Comparative Philosophy at the University of Tasmania, is a convincing analysis of the two views [of Je Tsongkhapa and Gorampa] that separate the Gelug descendents of Tsongkhapa from contemporary Dzogchen and Mahamudra adherents. Their philosophical positions have dramatic implications for how one approaches Buddhist practice and understands enlightenment itself.”—Mandala
