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Multi-dimensional Application of Anekāntavāda
In simple terminology it is the formation of outlook and exchange of viewpoints. The cognitive concept has three parameters, which are as follows: (1) Linguistic terminology (which has been used for expression of
thought) (2) The object and its qualities (on which the exchange of view is
taking place) (3) Dimensional view-points (through which the study of object is
undertaken) Each parameter has furthered multiple factors. Linguistic terminology can have mainly two factors: (1) Terms or words (2) Meaning or interpretation
As the way of expression of thoughts in words can not be of more than seven types, these two factors can be further divided into seven factors. That is why Anekantavāda is known as “Saptabhangi'. An object is mainly classified into two parts: (1) Identification of an object itself with all its different aspect An
object can be identified through generality when it has similarity with other objects, e.g. Man or Women can be called as a humanbeing rather than Man or Women. Similarly each object has its
own and specific class. (2) The object has multiple qualities by which it is identified. Dimensional View-points:
The cognitive concept is an expression of variable viewpoints, which are mainly objective rather than subjective. The main classifications of viewpoints are: (1) Time dimension (2) Space dimension (3) Substance dimension (4) Form dimension
Further, all these main factors or parameters can be continuously classified into further innumerable factors. Accordingly, cognitive concept will be innumerable and will go on multiplying endlessly. Anekāntavāda - teaches us that not only one cognitive concept is valid
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