Which of the following are true regarding the relation between the middle and major terms according to Nyaya philosophy?

1.It has to be a necessary relation

2.It can be either a necessary or a contingent relation

3.It can be a causal relation

4.It can be a species-genus relation

5.It can be a member-class relation

A2, 4 and 5 only

B2, 3, 4 and 5 only

C1, 3, 4 and 5 only ✓ Correct

D1, 3 and 4 only

Correct answer: (C) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only

Explanation

The relation must be a necessary one and may be causal, genus-species or class-membership, giving 1, 3, 4 and 5.

Nyaya requires an invariable concomitance, vyapti, between the middle and the major term.

A causal link, as of smoke with fire, is one form this necessary relation takes.

A species falling under its genus is another, as mango under tree.

A member belonging to its class is a third, and being invariable it can never be merely contingent.

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