Significance of Mental characteristics
Mental characteristics are interpreted differently in Vedanta and Science. Vedanta attributes them to specific qualities, such as happiness and misery, that are mistakenly assigned to Atman due to ignorance. In contrast, Science defines mental characteristics as psychological traits shaped by an individual's prakriti, alongside individual attributes linked to mental health that can impact overall well-being. Both perspectives underscore the complex nature of mental attributes, albeit from different philosophical and scientific viewpoints.
Synonyms: Mental qualities, Personality traits, Psychological characteristics, Emotional traits
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Mental characteristics'
In Hinduism, mental characteristics denote the misattribution of emotions like happiness and misery to the Atman, arising from ignorance. This highlights the need for awareness to distinguish true self from transient feelings.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The specific attributes such as happiness and misery that are wrongly attributed to Atman due to ignorance.[1]
The concept of Mental characteristics in scientific sources
Mental characteristics encompass psychological traits influenced by an individual's prakriti, as well as attributes related to mental health. These characteristics significantly impact overall well-being and are crucial for assessment in psychological studies.
From: AYU (Journal of Research in Ayurveda)
(1) Psychological traits and behaviors influenced by an individual's prakriti.[2]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
(1) Individual attributes related to mental health that can influence well-being and are assessed in the study.[3]