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NYAYA AND JAINA EPISTEMOLOGY
theory of relativity of knowledge represents very advanced type of theory and it may be interpreted as suggestive of statistical or probabilistic implications. It is in keeping with the advancement of knowledge in contemporary western thought. Of course, further research needs to be done in this field which might prove its relevance to modern problems. Its contribution to the world-thought is undeniable.
Jainism, has thus, developed a full-fledged system of realism. Its realism is unique because of its peculiar relativistic epistemology which points to the truism that we have to realize the limitations of our knowledge. Realism is carried to its logical conclusion and reaches its climax in Jaina epistemology. It would be no exaggeration to say that this kind of realism, having empiricistic foundation can provide scientific basis to epistemology.
Annotations : 1. Chattopadhyaya, D. (ed.) : Studies in History of Indian
Philosophy, Paper by 'P. C. Mahalanobis on 'the Foundations of
Statistics—a Study in Jaina Logic, p. 51. 2. Ibid P. 51. 3. Datta, D. M. : The Chief Currents of Contemporary Philosophy, P.
296. 4. Matilal, B. K. : The Navya-Nyāya Doctrine of Negation, pp. 89-90 :
G. Ryle : Negation, p. 80-96. 5. Mishra, Arjun : A Paper on 'Universals in Nyāya-Vaīseșika
Philosophy' in Indian Philosophical Quarterly, Vol. VI, No.4, July,
1979, University of Poona, ed. S. Barlingay. 6. Price, H. H. : His Article 'Reality and Sensible Appearance' Mind,
Vol 1-33, 1924, p. 20-43.
