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NYĀYA AND JAINA EPISTEMOLOGY
possibility of occurrence of omniscience is proved logically by saying that it is the final culmination of progressive development of knowledge. This stage is attained when obscuring karmic obstacles are removed in their entirety. Then an individual knows all objects vividly and precisely as they are. It can be called perception par excellence-pure knowledge unaided by anything.
It is clear that Jaina view of extrasensory perception differs from that of Nyāya. Nyāya emphasises that extrasensory perception is produced by special type of contact between the senses and the object. Jainas, however, do not accept such a kind of contact as according to them the function of senseorgans is limited. Even modern psychology recognises some such kind of supernormal perceptions without the help of senseorgans. Jaina psychology had recognised the same facts that have been established by modern parapsychologists on the basis of experimental investigation. In Indian psychology, the experiences such as telepathy, clairvoyance and precognition are not considered abnormal but no system of Indian philosophy scientifically represents them except Jainism. These are not miraculous powers but forms of knowledge. Cognition independent of the senses is not impossible. Experimental research substanstiates this view. Modern science in this field is still in its infancy. In the West, interest in the phenomenon of extrasensory perception is increasing and it is a profound truth which psychology is slowly coming to recognise. Extrasensory perception is being studied scientifically by parapsychologists like Rhine, Tyrell and Price today. Jainism has established these facts long back. That there is occurrence of such a phenomenon in genuine knowledge can hardly be doubted. It is a proposition which modern science does not dispute. Credit must be given to
| SR No. | 023167 |
| Book Title | Nyaya And Jaina Epistemology |
| Original Sutra Author | N/A |
| Author | Kokila H Shah |
| Publisher | Sharadaben Chimanbhai Educational Research Centre |
| Publication Year | 2001 |
| Total Pages | 248 |
| Language | English |
| Classification | Book_English |
| File Size | 17 MB |