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Summary of the module

Let us now summarize the key concepts and frameworks discussed in the lesson on knowledge creation in the Indian context.

Knowledge Triangle

The lesson began by introducing the knowledge triangle, comprising three key elements:

  • Prameya (Objects of Knowledge): The entities or topics about which knowledge is sought.
  • Pramana (Means of Knowledge): The valid methods for acquiring knowledge, including perception, inference, comparison, and testimony.
  • Pramatha (Knower): The individual or subject who acquires knowledge.

Contributions of Vaisheshika and Nyaya

The Vaisheshika school contributed significantly to understanding Prameyas by classifying reality into different categories. The Nyaya school focused on Pramanas, exploring various ways of acquiring valid knowledge.

Framework for Knowledge Creation

The Nyaya Darshana proposed a robust framework for knowledge creation, involving psychological, procedural, and logical aspects.

  • Prayojana (Purpose): A specific goal or need drives the knowledge creation process.
  • Samsaya (Doubt): Ambiguity or uncertainty motivates the search for new knowledge.
  • Argumentation: Discussions and debates, whether oral or written, play a crucial role in clarifying doubts and establishing valid knowledge.
  • Logical Structure: Arguments should follow a systematic procedure, including setting out hypotheses, providing reasons, and including relevant examples.
  • Siddhanta (Established Tenet): Once the doubt is resolved, the new knowledge becomes an accepted tenet.
  • Nirnaya (Repository of Knowledge): The established tenet then enters the repository of accepted knowledge.

Five-Step Anumana (Inference)

The five-step process of Anumana, as discussed in the lesson, can be applied to modern research methodology as well.

Relevance and Applicability

The framework for knowledge creation and argumentation developed by Nyaya was not limited to that school alone. It was a common framework adopted by various schools of thought and disciplines in pre-modern India, demonstrating its broad relevance and applicability.

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