Lec 1 Introduction to IKS

Welcome

  • Introduces the School of Business at Woxsen University.

Indian Knowledge Systems

  • Instructors: Dr. Melissa Zermit Namchu and Dr. Brundaban Mishra.

Background

  • Sushruta: Noted ancient Indian surgeon known for contributions like cataract operations and plastic surgery.

  • Knowledge in IKS includes medicine, yoga, math, geometry, and trigonometry, showcasing the intellectual heritage of India.

Definition of IKS

  • Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS): Indigenous knowledge sources from Indian society, based on shared cultural practices and region.

  • Example: Chanakya's education in Taxila and establishment of the Mauryan empire, showing the exchange of ideas in ancient India.

Tacit and Explicit Knowledge

  • Tacit Knowledge: Gained through personal experiences, often transmitted orally via folklore and tales.

  • Explicit Knowledge: Documented and structured knowledge; methods to extract tacit into explicit include theories and frameworks.

Framework of IKS

  • System: A structured classification allowing access to knowledge based on interests and goals, establishing logical connections among knowledge segments.

Components of IKS

  • Indian: Knowledge created by those within Indian Society.

  • Knowledge: Insights from experiences and practices.

  • System: A structured method for accessing and organizing knowledge.

Classification Framework of IKS

  • Diverse elements including:

    • Core Sanatana Dharma

    • Literary and Non-Literary Knowledge

    • Art, Health, and Public Administration

Concepts of IKS

  • Holistic and Interdisciplinary: Merges philosophy, science, and spirituality into an integrated system.

  • Vedic Foundations: Rooted in ancient texts, addressing metaphysical and ethical questions.

  • Self-Realization: Knowledge pursued for understanding the self and achieving Moksha through meditation and yoga.

  • Sustainability: Emphasizes harmony with nature through principles like Ahimsa and Dharma.

Scope and Importance of IKS

  1. Philosophy and Spirituality: Explores existence and consciousness through various traditions.

  2. Mathematics and Astronomy: Contributions in algebra, geometry, and celestial studies.

  3. Linguistics and Grammar: Importance of language in preserving spiritual texts, exemplified by Panini.

  4. Ayurveda and Medicine: Emphasizes holistic health and ancient surgical knowledge.

  5. Art and Architecture: Spiritual and aesthetic aspects of Indian cultural expressions.

  6. Ecology and Environmental Wisdom: Sustainable practices rooted in community engagement.

  7. Ethics and Governance: Texts on moral duty and practical governance.

  8. Social Sciences: Understanding of societal roles through historical frameworks.