Abstract

In this paper the conception of liberation in different systems of Indian philosophy is discussed in the light of the hedonistic doctrine that happiness or pleasure is the supreme end of life. All systems of Indian philosophy, except Charvaka, accept liberation as the highest end of life. The Vedanta and Jaina philosophers clearly enunciate that Liberation is the state of bliss or happiness. Some later Buddhists, Naiyayikas and Mimansakas also regard liberation as a state of bliss. Thus, we see that according to the advocates of positive conception of liberation and hedonism happiness is the highest end of life. The original Buddhism, Nyaya – Vaisheshika, Mimansa and Sankhya regard liberation as a state of freedom from suffering without presence of happiness. Cessation of pain is the highest end of life. J. S. Mill says that by happiness is intended pleasure and absence of pain. Thus, we see that advocates of negative conception of liberation and the hedonists seek cessation of suffering in their own ways. Similarity can also be seen between the conception of Jivanmukti and Mill’s substitution of general happiness for the happiness of the individual.