Anekanta Philosophy of Co existence

Author(s): Mahapragna Acharya
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 50

The Right Perspective of Anekânta
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at the same time both of them are modifications of the same ultimate substance, viz. pudgala (i.e. matter). Therefore, gold can be transformed into mercury and vice-versa. They are non-different or identical from this point of view. Thus, they are neither absolutely different nor absolutely identical, but they are identical-cum-different. The phenomenon of radioactivity accepted by the modern science is a good illustration to make this point clear. The element uranium which has the atomic number 92 gets transformed into the element Lead which has the atomic number 82, in a specific time-period, on account of its radioactive nature. The atomic numbers of gold and mercury are 79 and 80 respectively. When, through proper external means, the atom of mercury is made to lose one electron, one proton and two neutrons, it will change into the atom of gold. Anekānta has its limitations; it is applicable only in the field of ontology-only to comprehend the relativity of substance and modification. The science of existence or element is absolute; non-absolutism is not applicable to the ultimate existence or element. Therefore, it is not desirable to apply non-absolutism everywhere. For example, in the field of mathematics, anekānta could be applied once in a while, but it is not possible to apply it everywhere. Eminent statistician, Prof. P.C. Mahalnobis has observed that 'Syādvada' has the genesis or basic foundation of modern