Q1. Explain the concept of Substance and discuss in detail its nature. Or Explain and critically examine Prakritipariņāmavāda of Sāmkhya Philosophy.
- Substance is the ultimate underlying reality, existing independently, and serving as the basis for properties.
- Aristotle defined primary substance as individual things (e.g., Socrates), existing independently as subjects of predication.
- Descartes posited God as infinite substance, and mind (thought) and matter (extension) as distinct finite substances.
- Locke described substance as an unknown substratum, the 'something, I know not what,' supporting perceived qualities.
Answer: The concept of Substance is a fundamental idea in metaphysics, referring to the ultimate underlying reality that exists independently and forms the basis for all properties and accidents. It is that which exists in itself and is not dependent on anything else for its being. Philosophers across various traditions have grappled with its definition and nature, seeking to understand what truly constitutes existence. Historically, philosophers like Aristotle defined substance (ousia) in two ways: pr...