Which of the following are admitted by the Naiyayikas (Indian logicians) as kinds of inference?

1.Inference of the effect from the cause

2.Inference of the cause from the effect

3.Inference from knowledge of similarity between two kinds of objects

4.Inference from observation of general inseparability

A1, 2 and 4 only ✓ Correct

B1, 2 and 3 only

C1 and 2 only

D1 and 4 only

Correct answer: (A) 1, 2 and 4 only

Explanation

The kinds of inference recognised are items 1, 2 and 4.

Inferring the effect from the cause is one accepted type, as of rain from gathering clouds.

Inferring the cause from the effect is a second, as of past rain from a flooded river.

Inference from observed general inseparability is the third, resting on constant concomitance.

Knowledge through similarity between objects belongs to comparison, a separate means, not inference.

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