Jain Spirit 1999 07 No 01

Author(s): Jain Spirit UK
Publisher: UK Young Jains

Page 14

LIFESTYLE: WHY I ADMIRE JAINS
BY MICHAEL GIANNELLI
IKE MOST STUDENTS of philosophy and religion, I have long been aware of Jainism, but Lmy personal introduction to Jains resulted from my work as an animal rights activist. My admiration for these Jain friends and my respect for the profound tradition which they represent really began with our alliance to protect animals from exploitation. Over the years, however, my appreciation has expanded, based upon my growing awareness of the cultural values which Jainism has long offered to the world. I would like to mention a few of these elements as I understand them.
RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WORLD - In welcome contrast to the proprietary materialism so characteristic of Western cultures, Jains look at the world through the gentle eyes of humane stewards. Consistent with the fundamental principle of Ahimsa, Jains attempt to practice nonviolence in relationship to other people, to animals and to the environment as a whole. No other ancient tradition has more consistently resisted the unfortunate human tendency toward aggression and militarism. In this era of recurring wars, excessive consumerism, ecological destruction, and gross violation of human and animal rights, one would be hard-pressed to find a value which is more greatly needed in the modern world.
THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION - lains place an exceptionally high value on learning, knowledge and rationality. But unlike many other traditions which view science and religion as being in essential conflict, incorporated into the Jain world view are modern scientific thinking and regard for the potential benefits of technology wisely used. This outlook ensures that Jainism will remain relevant to changing times and is a great advantage in the perpetual struggle to adjust to new challenges.
ELEVATION OF DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES - Thousands of years before the French revolution, the American revolution, the U.S. Constitution, the civil rights movement, and the women's movement, Jains espoused and practiced the doctrine that all human beings should be treated as equals. Rejecting the historically concurrent and widespread infliction of slavery, the caste system, the subordination of women, and the sacrifice of humans and animals, Jains long ago set an egalitarian example which still serves as a beacon of enlightenment for advocates of a democratic philosophy.
I admire Jains because they seek to embody the best of seeming opposites: They ar
steeped in rich and ancien tradition, yet thoroughly modern in their outloo
TOLERANCE FOR DISSENTING OPINION - Most religious and philosophical traditions have shown a regrettable propensity for dogmatism and prejudice toward those who hold dissenting opinions and values. Although deeply rooted in solid conviction, Jains have resolutely cultivated a system which acknowledges the relativity of knowledge and which resists the temptation to arrogantly view one's group as the only people chosen to carry "the truth" to the world. The Jain perspective readily accepts that non-Jains have made important contributions to the development of ethics, religion, philosophy, social values and in many other ways.
RESPECT FOR THE ARTS - In societies such as the United States, the importance of artistic inspiration and expression are, at best, compartmentalized into a role
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Jan Spirit. July - September 1999
Jain Education Intemational