Vada in Theory and Practice: Studies in Debates, Dialogues and Discussions in Indian Intellectual Discourses c6.s3.2

c6.s3.2

Techniques of *vāda* had systematically been developed when this great epic was being compiled. Vyāsa, delivering a discourse on governance before Yudhiṣṭhira and other Pāṇḍavas, recommends that the king should employ ministers who are well-versed in Tarkaśāstra (logic). He also emphasizes over the need for inculcating the Tarkaśātra in life.⁵⁵ Ānvīkṣikī is actually mentioned here in the enumeration of the four branches of learning.⁵⁶ There is a reference to *pañcāvayava-vākya* (five-member syllogism), which is essential for carrying out a debate as per the methodology laid down in *Nyāyadarśana*.⁵⁷ *Mahābhārata* also refers to four *pramāṇas*⁵⁸ and scholars especially adept in the virtues and flaws of *pañcāvayava-vākya*.⁵⁹