Nyaya Philosophy:Doctrine,Principles and Criticism

Nyaya Philosophy is an Indian philosophy related to the theory of logic, methodology, and epistemological treatises. Nyaya philosophy serves as the foundation for India’s higher philosophical traditions. This blog will delve into Nyaya Philosophy to learn more about the Indian school of philosophy. This will help students in preparing for exams that include school to competitive, such as UPSC.

What is Nyaya Philosophy?

Nyaya Philosophy, also known as Nyaya-Vaisheshika, is one of six Hindu schools of philosophy. This philosophy is primarily concerned with logic, reasoning, and epistemology. Nyaya is a Sanskrit word that means ‘justice’. This philosophy makes a significant contribution to the methodical development of Indian philosophies. The ‘Nyaya Shastra’, a Sanskrit scripture written by Sage Gautama, is the foundation of Nyaya philosophy. He laid down the concepts and foundations of Nyaya’s thought.

Also Read: Gautam Buddha: Real Name, Life and Teachings

History of Nyaya philosophy

The history of Nyaya Philosophy is over a thousand years old and keeps evolving from various periods. 

• Nyaya philosophy has ancient roots in Indian history, dating back to the Vedas and Upanishads.
• The literature ‘Nyaya Sutra’ by Sage Gautama, written during the 2nd century BCE to 2nd century CE, served as the foundation of Nyaya philosophy.
• Following the Nyaya Sutra, numerous works of literature were written by Nyaya philosophers such as Vatsyayana (author of the “Nyaya Bhashya”) and Uddyotakara (author of the “Nyaya Varttika”).
• During the mediaeval period, Nyaya philosophy was strongly related to Vaisheshika philosophy. This combination system is commonly known as Nyaya-Vaisheshika.
• During the colonial period, Nyaya philosophy was studied, despite opposition from the Western educational system.
• This philosophy acquired popularity in the post-independence era because of its systematic approach to logic and epistemology.

Principles of Nyaya Philosophy

The key concepts of Nyaya philosophy were mentioned here for a detailed view on this concept.

Pratyaksha (Perception)

Nyaya holds Pratyaksha or perception as a valid source of knowledge.

• It divides perception into two categories: external and internal.
• External perception involves sensory perception, whereas internal perception encompasses mental perception or introspection.

Anumana (Inference)

Anumana is the second source of knowldge according to the Nyaya.

• It consists of gaining new knowledge by reasoning from what is already known.
• Nyaya divides anumana, also known as inference, into five categories depending on various logical arguments.

Upamana (Comparison)

Upamana is the knowledge acquired from comparison. 

• information obtained by comparison is regarded as a valid source of information.
• This approach is applied when there is a similarity between a known (Upameya) and an unknown object. (Upamana).

Sabda (Verbal Testimony)

Sabda means verbal testimony or authoritative testimony. 

• It includes information gathered from credible sources.
• These sources can include scriptures, teachers, or specialists in a specific profession.

Arthapatti (Postulation)

Arthapatti refers to postulation or presumption.

• This is used to explain certain inconsistencies in other sources of knowledge.
• It arises from assuming an unknown cause.

Anupalabdhi (Non-apprehension)

Anupalabdhi refers to non-apprehension, which means negative cognition.

• It is the information gained by the nonexistence or lack of something.

Also Read: Aristotle’s 3 Types of Knowledge and Its Relevance Today

Padarthas of Nyaya Philosophy

Padarthas, which are the external reality un Nyaya Philosophy are divided into sixteen categories. These are mentioned below:

1. Pramana: It is the source of valid knowledge.
2. Prameya: It is the object of knowledge, which is classified into 12 categories.
3. Samsaya: It is not a certain knowledge but a reflection of knowledge which represents a state of uncertainty.
4. Prayojana: It refers to the aim or objective.
5. Drstanta: It refers to the example that is highlighted to establish an argument.
6. Siddhanta: It means doctrine that serves as the foundation for the entire theory.
7. Ayayava: It is the inference used to establish reasons and come to a conclusion in an argument.
8. Tarka: It is the hypothetical argument that creates confusion.
9. Nirnaya; It means the conclusion or knowledge that is acquired through valid sources.
10. Badha; It refers to the discussion or debate between two parties.
11. Jalpa: It means wrangling or when two parties try to defeat each other with dishonest means.
12. Vitanda: It is the irrational argument that tries to refute others’ position instead of establishing his own.
13. Hetvabhasa: It refers to the irritation argument that appears to be valid but is really unfounded.
14. Chala: It is an unfair reply or a statement meant to cheat someone in an argument.
15. Jati: It is basically a debate and discussion based on a false analogy.
16. Nigrahsthana: It is the ground on which a person is defeated.

Methodology and Influence

Nyaya philosophy is based on the ground of debate and discussion.

• The Nyaya-Vaisheshika theory states that every effect has a cause.
• The Nyaya sutras present the principles of logic, argumentation, and epistemology in an organised manner.
• It emphasises logical reasoning in order to foster rigorous and systematic reasoning to get a valid result.
• Mimasa is another orthodox school of Hindu philosophy that shares certain similarities with Nyaya but differs in its focus and techniques.
• Nyaya philosophy has influenced Buddhist logic through its works.

Also Read: Main Branches of Philosophy

Criticism and Debates

This philosophy has attracted a lot of criticism and debates on its reasoning.

• Critics argue that Nyaya’s perception as a main source of knowledge ignores the existence of higher levels of cognition.
• Nyaya scholars claim that their philosophy provides a solid foundation for understanding reality and attaining genuine knowledge through logical reasoning.
• Nyaya philosophy has engaged in debates with other schools of thought, including Mimamsa, Buddhism, Vedanta, and Jainism, enriching Indian philosophical discourse.
• Nyaya’s contributions to logical reasoning, analysis, and methodology have had a significant impact on how Western intellectuals perceive Indian philosophies.

In conclusion, Nyaya philosophy is rich in systematic development and intellectual experiences, which have shaped ancient India and the modern era. Its legacy in logic and reasoning has had an immense impact on the larger landscape of Indian philosophical thinking.

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