Cognitive Dissonance Theory and Ayurvedic Psychology: A Conceptual Exploration of Manas, Buddhi, Smriti, and Sattva-Rajas-Tamas

Sasanka Sekhar Choudhury

Cognitive Dissonance Theory and Ayurvedic Psychology: A Conceptual Exploration of Manas, Buddhi, Smriti, and Sattva-Rajas-Tamas

Author(s)	Dr. Sasanka Sekhar Choudhury
Country	India
Abstract	Background: Cognitive dissonance theory, proposed by Leon Festinger in 1957, explains the psychological discomfort that may arise when an individual experiences inconsistency between beliefs, attitudes, and behaviour. Ayurveda describes mental functioning through concepts such as Manas, Buddhi, Smriti, and the three Gunas, namely Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. A conceptual examination of these frameworks may provide a useful perspective for understanding conflicts between health-related knowledge, personal intentions, and actual behaviour. Objective: To explore the possible conceptual relationship between Festinger’s cognitive dissonance theory and selected principles of Ayurvedic psychology. Methods: A narrative conceptual review was undertaken using Festinger’s foundational theory and classical Ayurvedic descriptions of mental functioning. The discussion focused on Manas, Buddhi, Smriti, and Sattva-Rajas-Tamas, with particular attention to their possible relevance to psychological conflict and health-related decision-making. The comparison was interpretative rather than experimental, and direct equivalence between the two frameworks was not assumed. Results: Cognitive dissonance theory offers a psychological explanation for the discomfort arising from inconsistencies between cognition and behaviour. Ayurvedic concepts provide a distinct framework for discussing mental processes, discernment, recollection, and qualities associated with psychological functioning. Their conceptual juxtaposition may help formulate questions concerning lifestyle adherence, dietary choices, and the gap between health knowledge and personal conduct. However, the proposed relationships remain theoretical and require empirical investigation. Conclusion: Festinger’s theory may serve as a supplementary framework for exploring selected issues in Ayurvedic psychology, particularly the relationship between understanding, intention, and behaviour. Such integration should preserve the philosophical foundations of Ayurveda while using contemporary psychological theory critically and without unsupported equivalence.
Keywords	Cognitive dissonance; Ayurvedic psychology; Manas; Buddhi; Triguna; Pathya-Apathya.
Field	Biology > Medical / Physiology
Published In	Volume 17, Issue 4, October-December 2026
Published On	2026-10-31

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Cognitive Dissonance Theory and Ayurvedic Psychology: A Conceptual Exploration of Manas, Buddhi, Smriti, and Sattva-Rajas-Tamas

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