(“reason”) This is a
crucial aspect in forming an inference in Indian philosophy (anumana).
The term has two different meanings in this context, one
widespread and the other more esoteric.
A hypothesis (pratijna), a reason (hetu), and examples
(drshtanta) are the three words used to describe an inference.
Each of these three terms has its own constituent pieces.
The term hetu, in its broadest definition, refers to the
rationale or evidence that backs up the assumption in the original hypothesis.
The fact that there is smoke on the mountain, for example,
would support the premise that it is on fire.
Hetu may also refer to the component of a reason that
demonstrates the hypothesis in a more limited meaning.
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