Ajivika is a deterministic philosophy that originated in ancient India and was popular during the time of the Buddha. It is based on the belief that everything in the universe is predetermined and governed by fate. In this philosophy, the concept of karma plays a crucial role in understanding the workings of the universe and the role of individuals within it.

Karma, in Ajivika, refers to the actions and deeds of an individual that determine their fate and future. It is believed that every action, whether good or bad, has consequences that will eventually come to fruition. This concept is closely related to the idea of cause and effect, where every action is seen as a cause that will lead to an effect in the future.

According to Ajivika, karma is not just limited to the actions of an individual in their current life, but it also includes the actions of their past lives. This means that an individual's current circumstances and fate are a result of their past actions, both in this life and in previous lives. This belief in reincarnation and the cyclical nature of karma is a fundamental aspect of Ajivika philosophy.

The role of karma in Ajivika is to explain the inequalities and injustices in the world. It is believed that every individual is born into their current circumstances as a result of their past actions. This includes their social status, wealth, health, and even their physical appearance. This deterministic view of karma can be seen as a way to justify the inequalities and injustices in society, as it is believed that individuals are responsible for their own fate.

In addition to determining an individual's fate and circumstances, karma also plays a role in the concept of liberation in Ajivika. It is believed that by performing good deeds and accumulating positive karma, an individual can break free from the cycle of rebirth and achieve liberation from the cycle of suffering. This is similar to the concept of moksha or nirvana in other Indian philosophies.

However, unlike other philosophies, Ajivika does not believe in the concept of free will. In this philosophy, all actions and events are predetermined by fate, and individuals have no control over their destiny. This deterministic view of karma can be seen as a way to relieve individuals of the burden of responsibility and the anxiety of making choices.

In conclusion, karma plays a significant role in Ajivika philosophy as it is the driving force behind an individual's fate and the cause of their current circumstances. It is a concept that is closely intertwined with the belief in reincarnation and the cycle of rebirth, and it serves to explain the inequalities and injustices in the world. While it may differ from other philosophies in its deterministic view of karma, it offers a unique perspective on the workings of the universe and the role of individuals within it.