Significance of Inferential knowledge
Inferential knowledge is a method of understanding based on reasoning and inference across various philosophies, including Jainism, Yoga, Vedanta, Dharmashastra, Vaisheshika, Mahayana, Theravada, and Science. It is used to form conclusions about non-directly perceived objects, relying on existing evidence and perceptions. This type of knowledge, although essential for understanding complex concepts, including supra-sensuous entities or Nibbana, is often viewed as insufficient compared to direct experience or scriptural authority.
Synonyms: Deductive knowledge, Analytical knowledge, Logical reasoning, Theoretical knowledge, Deductive reasoning, Implication, Logical conclusion, Interpretation
In Dutch: Inferenti毛le kennis; In Finnish: 笔盲盲迟别濒尘盲迟颈别迟辞; In Spanish: Conocimiento inferencial; In German: Inferenzielles Wissen; In Malay: Pengetahuan inferens; In Swedish: Inferentiell kunskap; In French: Connaissances inf茅rentielles; In Finnish: P盲盲telt盲v盲 tieto
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Inferential knowledge'
Inferential knowledge in Buddhism is a reasoning-based understanding of Nibbana, gained from teachings and commentaries, emphasizing insights into Suffering and other profound aspects related to higher spheres of existence.
From: 础产丑颈诲丑补谤尘补办辞艣补
(1) Inferential knowledge bears on Suffering, etc., of the higher spheres.[1]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Inferential knowledge is the reasoning-based understanding of Nibbana derived from teachings and commentaries.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Inferential knowledge'
Inferential knowledge in Hinduism involves understanding derived from reasoning and observation, crucial for conclusions about unperceived objects. It relies on existing evidence, though it is considered lesser than scriptural authority and insufficient for comprehending divine essence.
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) This knowledge arises from reasoning based on information gained from Directly sensuous knowledge, allowing conclusions to be drawn from observed phenomena.[3] (2) Knowledge acquired indirectly through reasoning, even in scenarios lacking direct evidence of existence.[4] (3) Knowledge that is derived from inference, leading to an understanding of the unknown object based on known properties.[5] (4) A type of knowledge derived from inference rather than direct perception, concerning whether Intellect can be perceived by the Mind.[6] (5) A type of knowledge that relies on inference rather than direct perception, which some believe Intellect can be categorized under.[7]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Knowledge acquired through reasoning and deduction, involving conclusions drawn from existing knowledge.[8] (2) Inferential knowledge is derived from reasoning based on existing evidence and perception; it is crucial for making conclusions about objects not directly perceived.[9]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Understanding derived from reasoning about the thoughts or consciousness of others, which is essential for communication and interaction through language.[10]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Understanding derived not directly from enumeration but from the lack of specific prohibitions, which complicates the comprehension of dietary rules.[11]
The concept of Inferential knowledge in local and regional sources
Inferential knowledge involves understanding derived from reasoning and deduction, contrasting with a viewpoint that prioritizes sensory experience for knowledge acquisition. This highlights the tension between rational analysis and empirical observation in understanding.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the type of knowledge where one moves from the less general to the more general or from the general to the particular, with experience as its foundation, as stated within the text.[12] (2) A form of understanding that relies on reasoning or deduction to arrive at conclusions, which was rejected by a group that only accepted information obtained through sensory experience.[13]