Question

Which among the following is not orthodox (Astika) school of Indian Philosophy?

• A. Nyaya
• B. Vedanta
• C. Charvaka
• D. Mimamsa

Hint:

Remember:
• Astika Schools: Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, Vedanta.
• Nastika Schools: Charvaka, Buddhism and Jainism.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Indian philosophy is broadly divided into two categories:
• Astika (Orthodox) Schools -- Accept the authority of the Vedas.
• Nastika (Heterodox) Schools -- Do not accept the authority of the Vedas. The six orthodox (Astika) schools are:
• Nyaya
• Vaisheshika
• Samkhya
• Yoga
• Mimamsa
• Vedanta

Step 1: Understand the meaning of Astika.
Astika schools believe in the authority of the Vedas and form the six classical schools of Indian philosophy.

Step 2: Identify the non-orthodox school.
Among the given options:
• Nyaya -- Orthodox (Astika).
• Vedanta -- Orthodox (Astika).
• Charvaka -- Heterodox (Nastika).
• Mimamsa -- Orthodox (Astika). Thus, \[ \boxed{\text{Charvaka}} \] is the school that is not an Astika school.

Step 3: Know about the Charvaka School.
The Charvaka philosophy:
• Rejects the authority of the Vedas.
• Accepts only direct perception as a valid source of knowledge.
• Emphasizes materialism and rational thinking. Therefore, it is classified as a Nastika (heterodox) school.

Step 4: Final conclusion.
Hence, the school that is not an orthodox (Astika) school is: \[ \boxed{\text{Charvaka}} \]