his dissertation is a study of introductory Tibetan logic, based on a logic manual by Pur-bu-jok Jam-ba-gya-tso (phur bu jok byams pa rgya mtsho, 1825-1901), The Topics of Signs and Reasonings from the "Great Path of Reasoning" in the Magic Key to the Path of Reasoning, Explanation of the Collected Topics Revealing the Meaning of the Texts on Valid Cognition. This is one of several texts on the topics of "Signs and Reasonings" (rtags rigs) that are used in Ge-luk-ba monastic universities to introduce the basic vocabulary and principles of reasoning. Such texts prepare students for study of the more profound topics of "Valid Cognition" (tshad ma), centering on the works of the great Indian Buddhist logicians Dignaga and Dharmakirti and Tibetan commentaries on those works.
This dissertation is primarily exigetical, taking up each of Pur-bu-jok's topics in turn and providing explanation and commentary. It also investigates the role of reasoning in the Ge-luk-ba system of education, describing the use of Pur-bu-jok's text in that system and commenting on issues (complications) that arise during its study. Also included are specific notes and comments by a number of Ge-luk-ba scholars.
Pur-bu-jok's main topics are: (1) The nature of correct signs--that is, what constitutes validity in reasoning. A correct reason (or "correct sign," rtags yang dag) is one that can generate new understanding of a thesis in the mind of someone who is ready to benefit from the reasoning. The "three modes" (tshul gsum) of a correct sign are discussed in detail. (2) The main division of correct signs into three types: effect signs, nature signs, and nonobservation signs. Pur-bu-jok also explains other ways of classifying correct signs. (3) The categories of facsimiles of reasons (gtan tshigs ltar snang)--those that do not fulfill the requirements of validity.
A complete translation of Pur-bu-jok's text, a glossary of technical terms, and a detailed table of contents are included.
