28/01/2026
1. Introduction to Philosophy
Definition: Philosophy is considered the "root of all knowledge" and the "mother of all sciences." It helps explore the basic source and aim of life.
Meaning of Philosophy: The word "philosophy" comes from two Greek words:
Philos (or Philo): meaning "love"
Sophia: meaning "knowledge" or "wisdom"
Therefore, philosophy means "love of knowledge" or "love of wisdom."
Key Characteristics:
Deals with whole reality.
Seeks to answer deep questions about life.
Wisdom is a supreme instrument for human existence.
2. Philosophical Problems
Philosophy attempts to answer fundamental questions such as:
What is knowledge?
What is the world?
Who created the world?
What is the soul/Brahma?
Where is God?
Who am I?
What is the goal/purpose of life?
3. Branches of Philosophy
The main branches of philosophy include:
Metaphysics: Deals with reality and existence.
Questions: What is reality? Is the world one or many? What is space?
Sub-branches: Ontology (nature of being and existence), Cosmology (theories about the universe), Theodicy (nature of God), Philosophy of Self (nature of self).
Epistemology: Deals with knowledge. It searches for knowledge and examines its validity, limits, and nature.
Axiology: Deals with values. It is divided into:
Ethics: Deals with right and wrong.
Aesthetics: Deals with beauty and nature.
Logic: Deals with reasoning and inquiry. It focuses on truth, methods of judgment, hypotheses, and definitions.
Political Philosophy: Deals with how society should be governed.
4. Functions of Philosophy
Analytical Function: Involves analysis and clarification of ideas, issues, and statements to understand other disciplines. It is subdivided into Metaphysics and Epistemology.
Speculative Function: Uses the mind as an instrument to think about things, even those uncertain or impossible, relying on imagination and possibility. It tries to understand educational issues and provide scientific data.
Prescriptive Function: Helps in decision-making and planning, establishing fundamental laws for human conduct, much like a doctor prescribes medicine.
Coordination Function: Works with other disciplines.
Inspiration Function: Inspires people and provides reference points for future thought.
5. Indian Schools of Philosophy
Indian philosophical schools are called "Darshan."
Classification: Indian philosophy is primarily divided into two categories:
Orthodox (Āstika): Schools that believe in the authority of the Vedas. There are six orthodox schools, collectively known as "Ṣaḍdarśana":
1. Nyāya: Founded by Gautama
2. Vaiśeṣika: Founded by Kaṇāda
3. Sāṃkhya: Founded by Kapila Muni
4. Yoga: Founded by Patañjali
5. Pūrva Mīmāṃsā: Founded by Jaimini (focuses on rituals)
6. Uttara Mīmāṃsā (Vedānta): Founded by Śaṅkarācārya (focuses on speculative aspects of reality)
Nyāya, Vaiśeṣika, Sāṃkhya, and Yoga are considered to have independent grounds.
Vedānta and Mīmāṃsā are directly based on Vedic texts.
Heterodox (Nāstika): Schools that reject the authority of the Vedas.
1. Buddhism: Founded by Gautama Buddha
2. Jainism: Founded by Mahāvīra
3. Cārvāka: Founded by Bṛhaspati
4. Ājīvika and Ajnana