Коллекция: Karma

The concept of causality or the "law of cause and effect" is deeply rooted in several traditional philosophies and religious systems in China, especially in Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. In a broad sense, this concept reflects the interdependence and continuity among things—that is, the principle that one thing (the cause) leads to the occurrence of another (the effect). Here's a brief description of the notion of causality from these three influential traditions:

1. **Buddhism:** In Buddhism, causality is known as "pratītyasamutpāda" or "dependent origination," and is also linked to the theory of karma. Pratītyasamutpāda refers to the interdependent nature of things, suggesting that all phenomena are the result of antecedent conditions, linking outcomes together in a causal chain. Karma refers to the energy produced by individual actions, which can have positive or negative effects and influence an individual's fate in both the present life and afterlife. In essence, good deeds lead to good outcomes, while bad deeds lead to bad consequences.

2. **Taoism:** Although Taoism does not explain causality as explicitly and systematically as Buddhism, it still recognizes the relationships and connections between things. Taoism emphasizes natural laws and the harmony of the universe, which includes some concepts of causality. Taoists believe that following the natural law and the Tao (the natural path of the universe) can lead to harmony, whereas acting against it can produce adverse outcomes.

3. **Confucianism:** In Confucian thought, causality is often associated with moral and ethical practices. Confucianism advocates for social harmony through the cultivation of virtues such as benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and faithfulness. To some extent, it promotes the idea that good actions can produce positive social effects, highlighting the connection between individual behavior and social fluctuations as well as personal destiny.

In modern Chinese society, these traditional concepts of causality are mixed with a variety of modern thoughts and cosmologies, yet these ancient beliefs and ways of thinking still influence people's daily lives and decision-making. Whether it's in personal life choices, business decisions, or policy-making, the notion of causality plays a significant role.