Three major Indian theories of consciousness—Advaita Vedānta, Sāṃkhya-Yoga, and Buddhist traditions—offer non-reductionist models that remain relevant to contemporary philosophy of mind, phenomenology, and cognitive science. Advaita's non-dual self-luminous ātman, Sāṃkhya's dualistic passive puruṣas, and the Buddhist doctrine of anattā with a luminous, non-substantial mind each conceptualize consciousness beyond materialist paradigms. The article argues that these classical models, drawn from texts like the Upaniṣads and Yoga Sūtras, critically engage with modern issues such as the 'Hard problem' of consciousness, panpsychism, and self-illusion theories, and can transform global understanding of subjectivity and the self.
Oxytocin, a hormone known for social bonding, may also help modulate states of pure consciousness—heightened awareness beyond ordinary perception. This review examines oxytocin's influence on neural pathways and brain structures involved in consciousness, including the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus, which regulate emotion, memory, and self-awareness. The authors propose that oxytocin acts as a biochemical facilitator of deeper, more connected states of awareness, and its role in social bonding may extend to fostering a sense of unity and interconnectedness reported in higher states of consciousness. The review bridges neurochemical, psychological, and philosophical perspectives to offer insights into oxytocin's potential to shape human awareness.