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Theory of Relativity
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thought by its nature is capable of giving, and does give, absolute truth, which is compounded of sum total of relative truths. Each step in the development of science adds new grains of absolute truth, but the limits of the truth of each scientific proposition are relative, now expanding, now shrinking with the growth of knowledge." If only Lenin knew how to apply this principle in the evolution of social and economic theories propounded by Marx, the fate of socialism would have been quite different today.
Theory of Seven Predications (Sapta-bhangi)
To clarify the above approach of ascertaining the truth by the process of Syādvāda ( Anekanta ) the Jaina philosophers have evolved a formula of seven predications which are known as Saptabhangi. 'Sapta' means 'seven' and 'Bhanga' means 'mode'. These seven modes of ascertaining the truth are able to be exact in exploring all possibilities and aspects. For any proposition, there are three main modes of assessment, namely, (1) A positive assertion, (2) A negative assertion, (3) Not describable. The first is called 'Asti', the second is called 'Nasti' while the third is called 'Avaktavya'. However, for greater clarity four more permutations of these three are added as under: 'Asti-nasti', 'Asti-avaktavya', 'Nasti-avaktavya' and 'Asti-nasti-avaktavya'. The word 'Syat' is prefixed to each of these seven predications to prevent the proposition from being absolute.
All these seven predications are explained with reference to an earthen pot; But we may try to understand with reference to an ethical proposition that 'It is sin to commit violence'. With regard to this proposition, the seven predications noted above can be made as under :
(i) It is sin to commit violence with an intention to commit the same (Asti).
(ii) It is not a sin to commit violence on an aggressor who molests an innocent and helpless woman ( Nästi).
(iii) It is sin to commit violence in breach of moral and
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