About The Course
Indic Meta Thinking - 2 is an advanced exploration of cognitive processes, logical reasoning, and epistemological frameworks rooted in Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS). Building on the foundational concepts of Indic Meta Thinking - 1, this course delves deeper into the intricacies of cognition, inference, and logical structures, emphasizing their relevance in modern intellectual and practical contexts. The course begins by examining the nature of cognition, distinguishing between valid (prama) and non-valid (bhrama) forms, and exploring their causes, processes, and validation techniques. It then transitions into understanding the systematic processes of inference (anumana) and syllogistic reasoning (pancha-avayava), equipping students with tools for structured and precise analysis. A significant focus is placed on identifying and addressing cognitive fallacies (hetvabhasa), ensuring clarity and sound reasoning. Moving beyond theoretical insights, the course investigates the workings of the mind (chitta), its states, modifications, and distractions, to provide a deeper understanding of cognitive discrepancies. Solutions rooted in Indic traditions, such as Shadanga Yoga and Kriya Yoga, are explored to cultivate mental clarity and focus. Finally, the course synthesizes these concepts to present the outcomes of Indic Meta Thinking, emphasizing practical frameworks like Shravana (listening), Manana (reflection), and Nididhyasana (meditation) for achieving clarity in thought, speech, and action. By integrating timeless wisdom with modern challenges, the course equips learners to navigate complexities with insight, balance, and precision. This journey offers a profound understanding of the philosophical and practical dimensions of meta-thinking, fostering intellectual growth, critical reasoning, and practical wisdom.
Syllabus
- Unit I: Types of Cognition and Inference
- • Types of Cognition:
- - Prama (Valid Cognition)
- - Bhrama (Non-valid Cognition)
- - Process of Bhrama
- - Causal Analysis of Bhrama
- • Validation of Prama and Determination of Bhrama:
- - Anumana (Inference)
- - Process of Anumana
- • Classification of Anumana:
- - Svartha Anumana (Inference for oneself)
- - Parartha Anumana (Inference for others)
- • Vyapti (Pervasion)
- • Types of Hetu
- Unit II: Logical Structures and Cognitive Fallacies
- • Pancha-avayava (Five-membered Syllogisms):
- -Introduction to Dialectics
- -Components:
- --Pratijna (Proposition or Thesis)
- --Hetu (Reason)
- --Udaharana (Example)
- --Upanaya (Application)
- --Nigamana (Conclusion)
- --Objectives of Each Avayava
- • Hetvabhasa (Causal Fallacies):
- -Savyabhichara (Erratic or Fallacious Reason):
- -Sadharana (General)
- -Asadharana (Special)
- -Anupasamhari (Non-limiting)
- -Viruddha (Contradictory Reason)
- -Satpratipaksha (Counteracting Reason)
- -Asiddhi (Unestablished Reason):
- --Ashraya-asiddhi (Unestablished Substratum)
- --Svarupa-asiddhi (Unestablished Nature)
- --Vyapyatva-asiddhi (Unestablished Pervasion)
- - Badha (Contradiction or Refutation)
- Unit III: Cognitive Discrepancies, Solutions, and Outcomes
- • Chitta (Mind):
- -Introduction to Chitta
- -Chittabhumis (Mental States)
- -Chittavrittis (Mental Modifications)
- -Chittavikshepas (Distractions of the Mind)
- • Solutions for Clarity:
- -Shadanga Yoga
- -Kriya Yoga
- • Outcome of Indic Meta Thinking:
- -Prajna-vakya-kriya Vaisharadyam (Clarity in Wisdom, Speech, and Action)
- -Vyasana-abhyudaya-buddhi-avasthapanam (Establishing Intelligence in Adversity and Prosperity)
- -Framework of Shravana-manana-nididhyasana (Listening, Reflection, and Meditation)
More Information
- Learning Objectives
- • To explore and analyze types of cognition, including valid and non-valid cognition, through the lens of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS).
- • To understand inference, syllogisms, and logical structures, enhancing critical thinking and reasoning abilities.
- • To identify and address cognitive fallacies and discrepancies to improve intellectual clarity.
- • To gain insights into the functioning of the mind (chitta) and its states, modifications, and distractions.
- • To explore practical solutions like Shadanga Yoga and Kriya Yoga for attaining mental clarity and focus.
- • To apply frameworks of Indic epistemology, including Shravana, Manana, and Nididhyasana, to achieve clarity in wisdom, speech, and action in real-life situations.
- Intended Outcomes
- • Analyze Cognitive Processes: Differentiate between valid and non-valid cognition and understand their respective processes, causes, and validations.
- • Enhance Logical Reasoning: Apply inference (Anumana) and syllogistic reasoning (Pancha-avayava) to structure arguments and analyze ideas effectively.
- • Identify and Resolve Fallacies: Recognize and address cognitive fallacies (Hetvabhasa) to ensure clarity and accuracy in reasoning.
- • Understand and Regulate the Mind: Examine the nature and states of chitta, understanding its modifications and distractions to achieve mental balance.
- • Implement Yogic Practices for Clarity: Use Shadanga Yoga and Kriya Yoga techniques to improve focus and resolve cognitive discrepancies.
- • Achieve Practical Wisdom: Integrate principles of Indic Meta Thinking to achieve clarity in thought, speech, and action, especially in challenging situations.
- • Apply Indic Knowledge Frameworks: Use traditional methods like Shravana, Manana, and Nididhyasana to reflect, internalize, and implement knowledge effectively.
