Inference (Anumana) in Indian Logic

In Indian Logic, inference, known as Anumana, plays a significant role in the process of knowledge acquisition and reasoning. Anumana is one of the pramanas (means of valid knowledge) along with perception (pratyaksha) and verbal testimony (shabda). It involves drawing conclusions based on logical reasoning and the relationship between various terms in a syllogism.

Invariable Concomitance between Middle Term and Major Term

The correct answer to the question is option 'D', which states that inference in Indian Logic is rooted in the invariable concomitance between the middle term and the major term. This means that there is a consistent and necessary relationship between these two terms in a syllogism.

Syllogism and its Components

To understand the concept of invariable concomitance, we need to delve into the components of a syllogism. A syllogism consists of three terms: the major term (predicate of the conclusion), the minor term (subject of the conclusion), and the middle term (common term connecting the major and minor terms). It also includes two premises (statements) and a conclusion.

Understanding Invariable Concomitance

Invariable concomitance refers to a relationship where the presence or absence of the middle term guarantees the presence or absence of the major term. In other words, whenever the middle term is present, the major term is also present, and whenever the middle term is absent, the major term is also absent. This relationship is consistent and unchanging.

Example:

Let's consider an example to illustrate the concept of invariable concomitance:

Premise 1: All humans are mortal. (Major Premise)
Premise 2: Socrates is a human. (Minor Premise)

From these premises, we can draw the conclusion:

Conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is mortal.

In this example, the middle term is "human." The major term is "mortal," and the minor term is "Socrates." The invariable concomitance between the middle term and the major term is evident, as all humans are guaranteed to be mortal.

Significance of Invariable Concomitance

Invariable concomitance is crucial in Indian Logic as it allows for valid and sound reasoning. By establishing a consistent relationship between the middle term and the major term, it enables us to draw logical conclusions based on the given premises.

Conclusion

Inference (Anumana) in Indian Logic is rooted in the invariable concomitance between the middle term and the major term. This relationship ensures that whenever the middle term is present or absent, the major term also follows suit. Understanding this concept is essential for logical reasoning and drawing valid conclusions in Indian Logic.