Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Theory of no-soul.
Exam Relevance: GRE, GMAT, Philosophy exams, Religious Studies exams
Difficulty: Moderate
Concept notes: Buddha's theory of self, known as the theory of no-soul, posits that there is no permanent, unchanging self or soul.
Common Mistakes: Students often confuse the theory of no-soul with the idea of eternal or immutable self, which are concepts from other philosophical or religious traditions.
Explanations: Buddha's theory of no-soul, also known as anatta, asserts that the self is not a permanent, unchanging entity but rather a collection of constantly changing elements. This theory is central to Buddhist philosophy and distinguishes it from other belief systems that propose the existence of a permanent soul or self.
Option Analysis: - Option A: Eternal self is incorrect as it contradicts the Buddhist belief in impermanence and the non-existence of a permanent self.
- Option B: Immutable self is incorrect as it implies a fixed, unchanging self, which is not aligned with Buddhist teachings.
- Option C: Theory of no-soul is correct as it accurately reflects Buddha's view on the self as a non-existent, impermanent construct.
- Option D: None of these is incorrect as the theory of no-soul is a well-established concept in Buddhist philosophy.
Mnemonic: Anatta, No Soul, No Self