Theory of causation in Nyaya philosophy
The same cause produces the same effect, this the crux of nyaya causation theory.
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A cause is outlined 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 conditions mentioned below should be met:
The cause must be antencedent (Purvavrtti)
Invariability (Niyatapurvavrtti)
Unconditionality (Ananyathasiddha)
Nyaya recognises five kinds of accidental antecedents (Anyathasiddha):
Just an 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 recognises 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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