A Review on Tarka and Nyaya in Ayurveda: Role of Logical Reasoning in Diagnosis and Treatment

Abstract

Tarka or reasoning or rational inquiry in Sanskrit, is a basic philosophical concept within Indian philosophical schools, especially the Nyaya school. It involves formalized argument, profound introspection and sophisticated analysis, making it an invaluable tool for discerning truth from falsity. Tarka Shastra, the reasoning science, is a methodical structure for dialectics and argumentation that includes important techniques like Purva paksha and Apara paksha. Closely associated with Nyaya philosophy, Tarka is used as a vital epistemological instrument to evaluate sources of knowledge, solve philosophical conflicts, and guide the intellect towards sound conclusions. Nyaya, although a separate but ancillary system, provides a detailed framework of sixteen categories for ordering reasoning and acquisition of knowledge. This essay discusses the complex function of Tarka, its use in different schools of philosophy, and its inclusion within Nyaya to aid the final philosophical objective Moksha through proper knowledge