अनेकांत: सामाजिक अभिप्राय
By शुभू पटवा
Summary
The text discusses the contemporary global and Indian context, marked by economic disparity, socio-cultural erosion, and a decline in human values like compassion and cooperation, replaced by heartlessness and exploitation. It argues that modern development lacks checks to restore humanity, and communication revolutions have not bridged inequalities but only spread awareness of global crises. The author emphasizes the need for a perspective to address this distress, proposing the Jain principle of *anekant* (non-absolutism). While *anekant* has been discussed religiously and philosophically, the text stresses its social relevance today, questioning whether it can guide society out of current crises. It notes that *anekant* promotes non-aggression, respect for diverse views, and freedom from prejudice, offering lessons in tolerance and coexistence. The text critiques that *anekant* has been confined within Jainism, despite its universal potential. It observes that Jains and *anekant* followers are comparatively more tolerant and less prone to violence, hatred, and exploitation. The author asserts that *anekant* is integral to India’s diverse fabric, supporting its multitude of religions, languages, and communities. The conclusion calls for scholarly exploration of *anekant*’s social implications, urging a focus on its practical application to contemporary societal problems.
Conclusion
The document underscores the urgent need to apply the principle of *anekant* (non-absolutism) as a practical social philosophy to address contemporary crises like economic disparity, cultural erosion, and rising extremism. It argues that while materialism has advanced, human values such as compassion and coexistence have declined, leaving society fragmented by dogmatism and conflict. The text concludes that *anekant* offers a path beyond rigid ideological divisions, promoting tolerance and dialogue essential for India’s diverse fabric. By freeing this Jain doctrine from narrow religious confines, it can serve as a corrective to modern ills, fostering a more inclusive and humane social order. The implications are clear: without embracing such pluralistic perspectives, efforts to resolve global and local tensions will remain superficial.