This seminal collection of works by Allan Anderson expresses his deep concern with vital matters that are shared by all of humanity. His exploration into questions that profoundly affect people of every race and gender, from every quarter of the globe, are brought into focus in his discerning questions posed to J. Krishnamurti. In 1974 he held 18 one hour conversations with the philosopher, teacher and author Krishnamurti, who was perhaps the most noted iconoclast of his day. One who spoke on a wide range of topics, often focusing on 'what is', as he put it. His teaching pointed again and again to not being hobbled by the influence of others, be they those we look up to such as Gurus, Priests and Masters but, also the culture into which we are born, with its deep impact on our conditioned mindset. Our admiration can also include Rulers, Kings or Dictators whose iron hand can impose a sense of order into the confusion and disorder of our lives. Our beliefs, the rules set out by our conditioned past, can prevent us from direct observation and true insight. As a teacher Krishnamurti did not offer comfort or consolation, but rather asked that we take direct responsibility for our actions and to our relationship with others. As the interviews continued under the challenging exploration of both Anderson and Krishnamurti, the topics plumb depths that could only be achieved by those who are able to interact with direct responsiveness. The universality of the topics, ranging in part from questions regarding Fear, Desire, Death, Religion and Authority and lastly Meditation, to offering the widest scope for those willing to face essential questions. The rapport with which the two men interact, the open minded approach to serious issues, indicate not only the depth and passion of their concern but the ability to really listen. Each responding to the other, not as if from across the ravine of pre-held positions, but each looking afresh at every issue as it arises. Lastly, the awakening of that supreme intelligence which does not depend on any authority and which is beyond all thought can only come about from the well-spring of direct perception. Each man, in his own way, makes clear that such perception is possible. (From the Foreword by Evelyne Blau)
About the Author: Professor Emeritus Allan W. Anderson received his Ph.D. in Philosophy and Comparative Religion from Columbia University with Union Theological Seminary. He taught at San Diego State University from 1962 to 1985 and is the recipient of California's Distinguished Teaching Award. He was one of the founders of the Religious Studies Department at the university. Several generations of students credit him with a lasting and profound impact on their academic and personal lives. He has written two books and many articles on the I Ching and has presented numerous papers on the nature of religion, spirituality and the oracular tradition at international conferences. He has also become well known for his 1974 series of eighteen dialogues with J. Krishnamurti available on DVD and published in book form as A Wholly Different Way of Living.