________________
will differ from those of a scientist in the laboratory. Some consequences of the theory of relativity, which have been verified experimentally, are :
1. The mass of a particle increases with its velocity. 2. Energy=(mass) (velocity of light ).2
This is the famous mass-energy equivalence equation which indicates that mass can be converted into energy and the energy can be converted into mass. A certain amount of mass is totally annihilated and converted into energy in atomic reactors. In the Phenomenon of pair producton, energy is converted into mass, i.e., a pair of electron and positron (positively charged electron ) is created out of energy
According to modern science, in certain experiments, light waves ( electro. magnetic waves ) exhibit the properties of wave motion and in certain other experiments, they behave like particles known as quanta. Quantum mechanics is the branch of science which deals with the motion of quanta. A fundamental postulate of quantum mechanics ( which is also known as wave mechanics ) is Heisenberg's uncertainty principle (or the principle of indeterminacy). It states that it is impossible to simultaneously determine the precise position and the precise momentum (mxv) of a particle. Similarly, it is not possible to simultaneously determine the precise energy of a particle at a given instant of time. Much of modern scientific research is based on the principle of indetermincy and on quantum mechanics. Further, there is the branch of science called the relativistic quantum mechanics in which aspects of the theory of relativity are incopporated in quantum mechanies. Researches in quantum mechanics and relativistic quantum mechanics have led to a great deal of scientific progress. At present, it is not possible to establish a one to one correspondence between the doctrine of seven aspects, and, the theories of relativity, quantum mechanics and relativistic quantum mechanics. However, it is evident that the principle of uncertainty is somewhat similar to the inex; pressibility aspect, and, the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics are parallel to the Jain doctrine of seven aspects.
To a scientist, the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics provide powerful tools for scientific research and progress. To a human being, the doctrine of seven aspects, not only provides a means of achieving the proper perspective and the proper knowledge, but it also furnishes an effective means of living at peace with the self and the surroundings. The proper perspective, the proper knowledge and the proper action can result only if we understand the various viewpoints. Peace and harmony can come only if we try to understand others position. Thus the doctrine of seven aspects is the basis for acquiring the knowledge of the universe and it is also fundamental for adopting the proper life-style. It should be emphasized that understanding others viewpoint leads to the absence of anger (KRODHA), pride (MANA ), deceit (MAYA) and greed ( LOBHA). This results in the shedding of KARMA particles and the prevention of the influx (SAMVARA ) of new KARMA particles.
- 539 -
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
