Modern Science and the Principle of Karmons in Jainism
By Kanti V. Mardia
Summary
Kanti V. Mardia’s essay bridges Jain metaphysics and modern science by explaining karmons (karmic particles) and their interaction with the soul. Jainism posits that invisible karmons attach to the soul through activity, forming a karmic force. The soul’s “karmic computer” records past deeds and dictates future tasks; positive actions absorb positive karmons and purify the soul. Mardia compares concepts like bandha (karmic fusion) and asrava (karmic force-lines) to modern physics’ forces and draws parallels between the Jain concept of pudgala and Einstein’s mass‑energy equivalence. Vegetarianism is justified as a means to minimise karmic intake; Jains avoid onions because they believe onions contain more “life units” than apples. Mardia links Jain epistemology to anekantavada and syadvada, using the parable of the blind men and the elephant to illustrate the relativity of knowledge. He argues that modern science likewise revises its understanding as knowledge grows. Finally, the essay describes the purification path: the universe is eternal and self-regulating; karmic matter can only be removed through austerity and self-restraint; and religious enlightenment requires liberation from selfish desires. Thus, Mardia presents Jainism as a tradition that anticipates modern scientific ideas while offering a moral framework centred on karmic purification and non-violence.
Conclusion
Mardia interprets Jain karma theory through a scientific lens. Karmons are likened to subatomic particles that bind the soul, and the karmic computer records deeds across lifetimes. Positive actions reduce karmic matter, leading to purification. Jain concepts of karmic fusion and pudgala mirror modern notions of forces and mass‑energy equivalence. Strict vegetarianism reflects an effort to minimise karmic intake. By aligning Jain doctrines with anekantavada and scientific relativity, Mardia portrays Jainism as a system that unites science and spirituality and advocates self-restraint for karmic liberation.