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11. Man and Society
Man and society are two different elements. The philosophers who believed in individualism are of the opinion that man by himself exists as a human being outside of society. In other words they say that man can live without society. This belief implies that before man became part of a society, he was an individual in his own right; that for the security of his property, rights and life or for the attainment of some other goal, man founded the institution of a society.
The socialist philosophers believe that man and society cannot be separated from one another. In the history of human development man and society have both figured with equal importance.
Anekānta defines man and society in relation to each other. In a man both individualistic and social traits are found. Man's capabilities define. his individuality. Their expressions are part of his social skills. That is why individuals and society are different from one another. Man's individuality can never be non-existent. In spite of remaining an integral part of society man still retains his individuality. In this context, man is different from society. Man develops his desires, aspirations and activities through interdependence and exchange. In this
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