The Nyaya Theory of Causation
A cause is defined as an unconditional and invariable antecedent of an effect and an effect as an unconditional and invariable consequent of a cause. The same cause produces the same effect; and the same effect is produced by the same cause. The cause is not present in any hidden form whatsoever in its effect.
The following conditions should be met:
- The cause must be antencedent
- Invariability
- Unconditionality
Nyaya recognizes five kinds of accidental antecedents
- Mere accidental antecedent. E.g., The colour of the potter's cloth.
- Remote cause is not a cause because it is not unconditional. E.g., The father of the potter.
- The co-effects of a cause are not causally related.
- Eternal substances, or eternal conditions are not unconditional antecedents. e.g. space.
- Unnecessary things, e.g. the donkey of the potter.
Nyaya recognizes three kinds of cause:
- Samavayi, material cause. E.g. Thread of a cloth.
- Asamavayi, colour of the thread which gives the colour of the cloth.
- Nimitta', efficient cause, e.g. the weaver of the cloth.
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