The Indian schools of philosophy

An overview of the different schools of Indian philosophy

The Indian subcontinent has a rich philosophical tradition that originated in the Vedas around two thousand years before Common Era (B.C.E). Multiple schools of thought emerged over time that either believed in the Vedas' authority or refuted it for naturalistic and skeptical thinking. Traditionally, the schools have been classified on their belief in Vedas as the ultimate source of knowledge. Those who believed in Vedas are referred to as Āstika (आस्तिक), while those who don’t are referred to as Nāstika (नास्तिक) (Not Āstika)

Contrary to popular belief that Indian Philosophy is just mystical or soteriological, all of these schools developed extensive systems and theories in epistemology, metaphysics, logic, and ethics. Many of these schools were involved in intense philosophical debates to establish their theories. In fact, theories of debate were developed that were collectively known as vādavidyā (वादविद्या).

Following are the major schools of Indian philosophy:

• Sānkhya (सांख्य ) - Developed the creation theory of the universe through the interaction of Purush, Prakriti, and the gūnas. It led to the theoretical foundation of Yoga and heavily influenced the Bhāgwad Gīta.

• Yoga (योग ) - Focused on physical, mental, and spiritual development.

• Nyāya (न्याय ) - Developed systematic theories in epistemology and logic.

• Buddhist - A rich philosophical tradition (and world religion) that started with Gautama Buddha's sermons. It’s extensive in breadth and depth - From soteriology and metaphysics to theories in epistemology and logic.

• Jain - An ancient Indian philosophical system found in Jainism (religion). While it is mostly focused on metaphysical and soteriological theories, the system has developed theories in epistemology and ethics.

• Pūrva-Mīmāmsa (पूर्व -मिमामसा) - Emphasis on rituals in Vedas.

• Vedānta (वेदांत) - Based on Upanishads, Brahma Sutra, and Bhagwad Gita, Adi Shankaracharya consolidated the doctrine of Advaita Vedānta. It is one of the most influential schools of Indian philosophy, with its philosophical tradition still being practiced in many parts of India.

Other notable schools are Carvaka (Indian materialism) and Ajivikas (Determinism).

We can write volumes on the philosophical traditions of these schools. But we have a start with an overview. 🙂

In our upcoming posts, we will deep dive into many theories proposed by these schools and how they influenced Indian society and culture.