Economics of Mahaveera

Author(s): Mahapragna Acharya
Publisher: Adarsh Sahitya Sangh

Page 77

ENVIRONMENT AND ECONOMICS
61
Let the Balance Emerge In the medley of all these problems, there is a great need today to pursue a middle path. This implies small industries, selfemployment and nobody to grow so big that he could subjugate at will other people weaker than himself. One person becoming very powerful implies a continuous danger for the weaker ones. Let there be a balance. Such principles are found in the words of Bhagwan Mahavira as his thinking was inspired by the concept of anekanta. The most important reality is of human existence and human freedom, and these should not get adversely affected. At the same time, it is necessary that needs also get satisfied. It is very essential today to develop an economic theory which is based on these principles. Food and freedom, and food and faith should not destroy each other but must go together.
In olden times, it used to be said that Laxmi (wealth) and Saraswati (learning) do not exist together. This belief has changed today. Both go together. Then why not a new equation.
Why can food and freedom cannot flourish together? There is a great need for this in Economics today. I envision that the great principle of anekanta will be a great boon to humankind and that humankind shall bow in reverence to Bhagwan Mahavira. the propounder of this concept of anekanta.