Copyright © 2026 Authors retain the copyright of this article. This article is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

@article{205894,
        author = {Dr. Naveenta Devi and Dr. Nishant Paika},
        title = {Prajnaparadha as an Epistemological Error: Reconstructing the Ayurvedic Theory of Human Cognitive Failure – A Critical Review},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {1},
        pages = {8674-8679},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=205894},
        abstract = {Prajnaparadha (intellectual blasphemy or error of judgment) is one of the most fundamental concepts in Ayurveda and is regarded as a primary cause of disease, suffering, and behavioral dysfunction. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Prajnaparadha as the improper utilization of Dhi (intellect), Dhriti (self-control), and Smriti (memory), resulting in actions that are knowingly harmful to physical, mental, and social well-being. While traditionally discussed within the context of disease causation, the concept possesses broader philosophical significance as a theory of human cognitive failure. The present review critically examines Prajnaparadha from an epistemological perspective and explores its relevance in understanding decision-making errors, maladaptive behavior, and cognitive distortions.
Classical references from major Ayurvedic texts are analyzed to reconstruct the conceptual foundations of Prajnaparadha and its relationship with knowledge acquisition, moral reasoning, self-regulation, and health behavior. The review further examines parallels between Ayurvedic descriptions of impaired cognition and contemporary theories in cognitive psychology, behavioral sciences, neuroscience, and judgment and decision-making research. Particular emphasis is placed on the disruption of Dhi, Dhriti, and Smriti as mechanisms underlying irrational choices and health-compromising behaviors. The analysis suggests that Prajnaparadha represents a sophisticated Ayurvedic model of cognitive and behavioral dysfunction that extends beyond disease etiology and offers valuable insights into human error and self-destructive decision-making. Reinterpreting Prajnaparadha through contemporary epistemological and cognitive frameworks may contribute to integrative approaches for understanding health behavior, preventive medicine, and mental well-being. Thus, the concept remains highly relevant in the context of modern healthcare and interdisciplinary cognitive research.},
        keywords = {Prajnaparadha, Dhi, Dhriti, Smriti, Cognitive Failure, Epistemology.},
        month = {June},
        }