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examination, one must know the result. This is the only way one can assess and learn from one's effort. This would point out the mistakes or the knowledge of Jainism that has been gained as a result of doing the experiment. Follow up meetings must always be held to discuss the results, and ideally, everyone should be reading good spiritual books such as Mahatma Gandhi's autobiography and books on Jainism. A suitable bibliography of books in English is suggested at the end of this booklet. The leader of the discussion group should be knowledgeable about Jainism. If one were living in a small town where there are few Jains, a good solution would be for the whole family to do the experiments collectively.
INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCE
The most important point about this whole experimentstechnique is that it cannot be understood ‘second-hand'. Each person should try the experiment first hand - only then can he/she benefit through his or her own personal experience. At the discussion stage, we often found that the experiences of each individual were different. However, the conclusions were similar. Many participants found that the experience showed how far they were from practicing the principles in their own lives. This is a very important revelation.
We found that those who did not participate in the discussions, contributed very little to the discussions. Through direct experience, one develops one's own understanding and interpretation of the religion. Experience leaves a permanent mark in one's memory.
What happens after the experiments? Do people continue these principles in their own life? Our results have shown that for most serious participants, the experiments have left a mark on their lives. They have a much better AHIMSA: THE SCIENCE OF PEACE 173
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