Prolegomena to a History of Buddhist Philosophy

I undertook to prepare in June last a course of two Extension Lectures at the instance of the Hon'ble the President of the Council of Post- graduate Teaching in Arts. These lectures are to be judged as a mere introduction to the study of Buddhist Philosophy from the historical stand -point. It is however hoped that a few suggestions brought forward in developing the main point may be of some help to the students of Buddhism and Buddhist philosophy.

It is privilege to have an opportunity of expressing my deep sense of gratitude to the President for the inspiration by which he dispelled my doubts as to the urgent need of the study of Buddhist thought in its historical evolution. But I must also acknowledge my obligation to the staff of the post -graduate Council and of the University Press, by whose kind assistance the pages appear at last in print. Lastly I owe my teachers and friends in England and in India and immense debt of gratitude for many valuable suggestions and help without which I would not have ventured to undertake the arduous task.