that from whence any thing proceeds, or by virtue of which any thing is done: it stands opposed to effect. We get the ideas of cause and effect from our observation of the vicissitude of things, while we perceive some qualities or substances begin to exist, and that they receive their existence from the due application and operation of other beings. That which produces, is the cause; and that which is produced, the effect: thus, fluidity in wax is the effect of a certain degree of heat, which we observe to be constantly produced by the application of such heat.

First Cause, that which acts of itself, and of its own proper power or virtue: God is the only first cause in this sense.

Second Causes are those which derive the power and faculty of action from a first cause.

Efficient Causes are the agents employed in the production of any thing.

Material Causes, the subjects whereon the agents work; or the materials whereof the thing is produced.

Final Causes are the motives inducing an agent to act; or the design and purpose for which the thing was done.

Physical Cause, that which produces a sensible corporeal effect; as the sun is the physical cause of light.

Moral Cause, that which produces a real effect, but in things immaterial; as repentance is the cause of forgiveness. A moral cause is also defined, that which determines us, though not necessarily, to do, or not to do, any thing; as advice, intreates, commands, menaces, &c.

It is to be observed, that, in this sense, a moral cause is only applicable to a free intelligent agent: it is also observable, that the latter notion of a physical as well as a moral cause is the most just, clear, and distinct.

Cause, among civilians, the same with action. See Action.