Given below are two statements:

Statement I: For Indian thinkers, inference (anumāna) means only a syllogistic inference based on the relation of invariable concomitance between the middle term and the major term.

Statement II: There should be an absence of the middle term wherever there is an absence of the major term.

In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is A

Statement I is true because Indian logic, particularly Nyaya philosophy, defines inference (anumāna) as a syllogistic reasoning process based on the relation of invariable concomitance (vyāpti) between the middle term (hetu) and the major term (sādhya). Statement II is also true because, according to the rule of vyatireka (negative concomitance), the absence of the middle term implies the absence of the major term.
Information Booster: 1. Anumāna: In Indian logic, it refers to reasoning through inference based on the observed connection between the middle and major terms.
2. Vyāpti: The invariable concomitance between the middle and major terms, ensuring valid inference.
3. Syllogism: A form of reasoning that consists of premises leading to a conclusion.
4. Hetu (Middle Term): Connects the subject and predicate in a logical argument.
5. Vyatireka Anumāna: Negative inference, stating that if the middle term is absent, the major term must also be absent.
6. Indian Philosophy: Focuses heavily on structured reasoning and logical inference to support philosophical conclusions.
7. Indian logic adds depth to the understanding of cause-effect relationships and their role in reasoning.