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10
The Jaina Antiquary
[Vol XVI
10. In the sphere of economic life, the vow of parimita parigraha gives some light in the economic reconstruction of our society, nay of the world, gives some light. One has to limit his own personal possessions in the world, according to his status and immediate need. Any property acquired beyond this limit is not to be considered, as his own, but to he devoted to the amelioration of the society as a whole. If rightly applied and adjusted to the conditions of the modern world, it may offer a key to the solution of our economic problem in a peaceful manner without having recourse to violent mothods arising out of appeal to class hatred ealculated to level down property and overthrow the society in a revolutionary manner and leaving the seeds of eternal clash and conflict as the unhappy legacy to posterity.
11. The disastrous results of the two devastating world wars are felt by all humanity. The atomic energy placed at the disposal of man by Science has been employed by him for destruction of life. It is said that science has further discovered a process which can render a region lifeless in five minutes. On the other hand atomic energy properly utilised can serve man and better his condition immeasurably. Unless the violent ideas of national or race superiority, breeding animosity, are given up, humanity has to perish. Ahimsa alune can give life to the world.
12. Speaking of India, I may say that our social structure will be strengthened if we show a more catholic spirit in mending our defects. It is incumbent on all of us especially the intellectuals, to evolve a new system out of the old-essentially humanitarian in complexion to solve our social, economical, and even national problem. We must be able to order "cease fire" among bellicose sects and schools, to stop suicid battles and direct their combined energies towards the problem of healing the wound of man.
The crying need of the hour is the spirit of toleration and that of non-violence. India has shown in the past this spirit of adaptability and harmony and evolved a complex culture of unity and diversity. In the deafening wrangle of kill, kill, she may yet raise her voice and give the message of ampta.
