In this innovative study of the philosopher Nagarjuna, Nancy McCagney demonstrates that the concept of space ('akasa') in early Indian Mahayana Buddhism is the root metaphor for Nagarjuna's understanding of 'sunyata', or openness. Nagarjuna's use of the term 'sunyata' was new, and contrasted with the word's use in Pali Buddhist literature. By using the word to mean 'openness,' Nagarjuna was able to elucidate, through a deeper analysis of impermanence, a consistent philosophical foundation for the truth and efficacy of Gautama's Middle Way. McCagney's book will be important for those studying Indian philosophy, Buddhism, and the philosophy of religion.

"McCagney's work offers a detailed exposition and challenging interpretation of Nagarjuna's ideas." - International Journal of Hindu Studies

"This is an interesting and valuable addition to the steadily growing corpus of literature on Nagarjuna, the celebrated Madhyamaka Buddhist philosopher and patriarch. The distinguishing contribution of McCagney to our understanding of Nagarjuna's philosophy is her detailed and painstaking investigation into the early Buddhist and Mahayana backgrounds of Madhyamaka school....This fine work will benefit all students of Madhyamaka....Excellent bibliography and copious notes. Upper-division undergraduate; graduate; faculty." - CHOICE