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relativity. It seeks interpretation of a fact or situation not in absolute or single-track terms but as seen from various related angles. Thus, Anekant stimulates an effort to understand and harmonize different points of view and to discover the reality from among them. It promotes synthesis, tolerance and understanding, removes ego-generated tensions and promotes wider, open hearted and compassionate outlook. Anekant provides a very logical and scientific basis for peaceful orientation to inter-human relations. It can effectively promote higher degree of tolerance and accommodation, peaceful coexistence and peaceful co-prosperity. Aparigraha
(Non possession/voluntary abstinence). It is an approach on meeting your needs but not succumbing to greed. It promotes the culture of "taking less and giving more”. Seen in the wider perspective of modern world, this focuses on limiting undue indulgence in materialistic pleasures and voluntary abstinence from surplus necessities, comfort and luxuries. In this age of consumerism-generated wasteful consumption, adoption of Aparigraha attitude could be of immense help. Self-control (samyam) is the key to Aparigraha. Through voluntary selfrestraint, humans can “fence in” the otherwise uncontrollable craving, passions and lust.
Aparigraha is symbolized at an individual level in the form of fasting or voluntary abstinence from consumption of particular foods, clothes or other items, designing for oneself a life of judicious voluntary restraint, control and discipline. It should not be mistaken for austere life because it is a judiciously regulated life.
Aparigraha can prove an immensely effective tool to curb reckless exploitation and wanton destruction of limited natural resources to meet growing human needs arising from ever-increasing population pressure.
Ahimsa: The Ultimate Winner
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