In Hindu philosophy, 'arthapatti' is a concept referring to knowledge obtained through an established fact or postulation. It is one of the methods recognized by various Indian philosophical systems, or darshanas, to ascertain valid knowledge. While the means to acquire knowledge can range from three to six, the Purva Mimamsa system uniquely identifies and accepts six methods, the most among these philosophies.
Definition and Explanation
'Arthapatti' or 'postulation' is the second-to-last in the Purva Mimamsa series of means to knowledge. It is defined as the necessary supposition of an unperceived fact that alone can explain a phenomenon requiring elucidation. For example, if it is observed that a man is fasting during the day yet continues to gain weight, reconciling these two facts—fasting and gaining weight—demands an explanation. The most plausible supposition is that the man eats at night. This form of reasoning is what 'arthapatti' entails.
Importance in Mimamsa and Advaita Vedanta
Both Mimamsakas and Advaitins argue that 'arthapatti' is a distinctive and independent source of knowledge, setting it apart from other means. They assert that it cannot be subsumed under 'anumana' (inference), which involves a different process of logical reasoning. According to these schools, 'arthapatti' is crucial for understanding and interpreting certain phenomena that cannot be explained through direct perception (pratyaksha) or inference (anumana).
Comparison with Anumana
While 'anumana' or inference is another recognized means of knowledge, it typically involves deducing a fact from another observed fact through a universal relation (vyapti). For instance, seeing smoke on a hill and inferring the presence of fire based on the known universal relation between smoke and fire. In contrast, 'arthapatti' involves postulating an unperceived fact to explain a situation directly, as seen in the example of the fasting man who must be eating at night.
'Arthapatti' represents a sophisticated means of gaining knowledge in Hindu philosophy, highlighting the nuanced understanding of how humans can discern truths about their world. By recognizing and differentiating 'arthapatti' from other means like 'anumana', Indian philosophical traditions underscore the complexity and depth of their epistemological frameworks. This concept enriches the broader discourse on the nature of knowledge and the methods through which it can be obtained and verified.