The talk examines the essential teaching of Nagarjuna on causation, emphasizing the distinction between causal power and conditions, and its relation to the notion of inherent existence in phenomena. The discussion contrasts Nagarjuna's views with Nietzsche's remarks on cause and effect, exposing how conventional stories convey understanding but do not reflect essential realities. The debate highlights the practical versus metaphysical understanding of connections and the implications of viewing phenomena as dependently co-arisen and lacking intrinsic essence.

Referenced Works:

• Nagarjuna's Teachings: Nagarjuna's emphasis on causation as a concept to refute inherent existence is central, especially in relation to misunderstandings of causal power.

• "Beyond Good and Evil" by Friedrich Nietzsche: Discusses Nietzsche’s critique of free will and his comparison of causation to conventional fiction, drawing parallels to Nagarjuna’s thought on causation and inherent existence.

• "Discovering the Mind" by Walter Kaufmann: Offers insights into how explanations of causation are practical and serve to illuminate understanding without claiming essential truths.

AI Suggested Title: Unraveling Causation's Illusory Web