Significance of General reader
The term "General reader" in various contexts, including Hinduism, Ayurveda, Theravada, Indian history, and Science, refers to the average individual who engages with literature and scholarly works without being a specialist. This reader seeks to understand complex subjects, is often not deterred by difficult writing, and aims to learn about topics like history, culture, and science for personal interest rather than academic expertise. The general reader is essential for making literature accessible and interpreting diverse subjects effectively.
Synonyms: Average reader, Casual reader, Audience, Public, Non-specialist, General public
In Dutch: Algemene lezer; In Finnish: Yleinen lukija; In Spanish: Lector general; In German: Allgemeiner Leser
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'General reader'
In Buddhism, a "General reader" signifies an audience aimed at acquiring knowledge from teachings, with the expectation that they will apply this understanding in their everyday lives.
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The audience intended to gain knowledge from the treatise and is responsible for putting that knowledge into practical use.[1]
Hindu concept of 'General reader'
In Hinduism, a "General reader" represents the average individual interested in complex scholarly topics, particularly in historical and medical contexts, who may find certain texts, like the Brahmanas, less engaging.
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) An average individual who seeks to understand complex subjects, particularly in the context of scholarly works like the 'Oriental Series.'[2]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The average person who engages with literature, likely to find the Brahmanas uninteresting.[3]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The average individual who may not be a specialist but is interested in learning about historical and medical subjects.[4]
The concept of General reader in local and regional sources
The term "General reader" encompasses non-specialized individuals who read for pleasure or knowledge, engaging with literature for personal interest rather than academic purposes. This audience may encounter challenges with unclear writing and seeks accessible, enlightening material.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) These volumes afford to the general reader a very entertaining and enlightening reading material in verse, of considerable volume, variety and literary quality, which provides access to literature.[5] (2) This is the type of person for whom philosophy need not be dull or dry, according to Radhakrishnan's perspective.[6] (3) The general reader is who the essays in the first part are of more interest to, ranging from an interview with Freud to the eighteenth century in India.[7] (4) The text states that the volumes afford to the general reader a very entertaining and enlightening reading material in verse, of considerable volume, variety and literary quality.[8] (5) This phrase refers to a person who is not necessarily an expert on the subject, but is interested in reading the book.[9]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) General readers, along with students, are the intended audience for the book, which aims to generate awareness of Indian astronomy and proficiency in computational procedures developed over centuries.[10]
The concept of General reader in scientific sources
General reader encompasses individuals without professional or academic expertise in medicine or astrology, yet possess an interest in both subjects and find the text informative.