Heterodox Schools of Indian Philosophy
The Sramaṇa movement gave rise to a variety of non-orthodox philosophical traditions.
These schools, known as nāstika, are characterized by their rejection of the authority of the Vedas, which distinguishes them from the orthodox (āstika) systems.
Heterodox philosophies emerged as a response to the rigid ritualism, excessive spiritualism, world-denying idealism, dominant clerical authority, and the injustices of the caste system prevalent in orthodox thought.
The main branches of Heterodox Indian philosophy include:
Buddhist Philosophy
Jain Philosophy
Charvaka (Lokayata) Philosophy
Ajivika Philosophy
Ajnana Philosophy