Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes the Heterodox (Nāstika) Schools of Indian Philosophy?

• A. They uphold the authority of the Vedas and form part of the orthodox (Āstika) tradition.
• B. They emerged in alignment with the ritualism and spiritual idealism of Vedic teachings.
• C. They arose from the Śramaṇa movement and are characterized by their rejection of Vedic authority.
• D. The primary branches include Vedanta, Samkhya, and Nyaya schools.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. They arose from the Śramaṇa movement and are characterized by their rejection of Vedic authority.

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