________________
[ XII
(ii) Physics, (iii) Botany, (iv) Zoology, (\) Food science and (vi) Medical sciences. It contains 17 chapters, 880 references, 129 tables and 5 diagrams. The author wishes to extend this work to other subjects like mathematics, astronomy, astrology, geography, engineering etc. which will form the basis for another publication.
The general scholars will find this presentation in a nontraditional format covering the past and present. It has many informative and comparative tables and diagrams to instil better clarity and support for statements made leading to evaluative relationship. The references have been kept to minimum and given at the end of the chapters in current traditions as practiced in humanities avoiding quotations, thus, minimising the space. A large number of references include those of current authors working in this direction. This is in contrast with traditional publications. The terminology of Jaina terms used here follows the pattern of glossary published by Jaina International, Ahmedabad ( 1995 ) which stands approved by many noted Jaina scholars. Many discordant notes and suggestions for further studies and guidance by competent canonists have also been mentioned as and where required. The author wishes this exercise may lead them to be in a position to realise the trend in growth in knowledge and estimate the position of Jaina system in current comparision. They may realise many points not in tune wirh their traditional conceptions
The author does not feel himself to be a competent scholar either in Jaina system or science. However, whatever background he has, he has tried to study the relevant literature for his neutral analysis. He does not claim that his studies are complete while undertaking this exercise for his inferential comments. The deeper scholars will, therefore, do well to point out flaws or additional informations to correct or modify his views. The author will be highly pleased to receive such comments and criticisms.
The author could not have undertaken this exercise
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org