This text is a systematic introduction to the major systems, orthodox as well as heterodox. It is presented in such a way that an interested neophyte will have no problem in grasping the key issues. In an introductory chapter he criticizes western parochialism as judging "the philosophies of others by standards and criteria of one's own culture." he asserts rather that the basic philosophical problems in Indian and European systems "are astoundingly similar." he demonstrates this in each of the chapters, starting out with the three major heterodox schools：Carvakism，Jainism，and Buddhism. He then develops the orthodox systems, generally covering their epistemology，metaphysics, and theology where applicable. In the remaining two chapters he deals with "time and history in the Indian tradition" and "a glimpse at the contemporary scene."
