The nature of philosophy is that its proper study sheds light on all aspects of human activity. Whether one is a doctor, a carpenter, a teacher or a homemaker, the light of practical philosophy makes daily pursuits areas of rich discovery.

Over the course of their studies, many students experience a natural desire to share their discoveries with others. Those who have done so have often found themselves developing their own areas of interest into courses of study for presentation in different forums in the school.

It is like a philosophical garden – subjects grow and flower with simple attention and desire, and are on display for all to enjoy.

Following the death in 1994 of Leon MacLaren, the founder of the London School of Economic Science and its leader for nearly sixty years, Shri Shantananda Saraswati* referred to the propitious responsibility of developing and eventually fulfilling ‘this philosophical garden.’

The initial focus of study in the School was economics and although this study continues, philosophy and its practical application in life has been the central theme for many years now. Philosophy provides insights of all kinds – insights that have arisen out of a potent blend of love and understanding.

These insights have expanded into art, music, law, Renaissance studies, architecture, language, dance, education, science and other subjects. Philosophical principle has shaped and continues to shape work in all these areas, and how this applies in some of the areas is demonstrated in the School’s special events.

* Shri Shantananda Saraswati, who died in 1997, was the Shankaracharya of the North in India for many years. He taught the principles and practice of non-dualistic philosophy, based on direct experience of the unity underlying creation.