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being.36 In this sense the Syadvada presents the possibility of predicating different characteristics of the object from the points of view of substance which is permanent and the modes which are changing.37
Study of Jainism
The theory and methodology of Syadvada need to be studied in all its implications in the scientific and metaphysical concepts. It needs to be analysed in the methodological schemata by further extensive research not only with reference to the ancient texts but more specially with reference to modern advanced concepts in logic, metaphysics and empirical sciences. Syadvada is as much a theory of logic as a methodology of investigation.
This is the Anekanta attitude of the Jainas. The Jaina emphasis of the material and the spiritual as the synthesis of opposites leads to a concrete universal involving unity in diversity. It is comparable to Jasper's 'unfanatical absoluteness'. Jainas in their theory of Anekanta illustrate a non-attachment of partial truths; and they have made creative use of the contradictions by removing the sting out of them, Heideggar presents a similar view.
Anekanta is the panacia for the ills of the present day society. In political life, Pancasila expresses the spirit of Anekanta.
The conditions of society in the present day world demand that we adopt such a catholic outlook or else we perish. We are in the midst of a life where hatred, injustice and intolerance reign supreme. A new orientation of values would be necessary for us to destroy the inverted values and then 'rebuild to our heart is desire'. What we need today is love and sympathy and not prejudice and pomp. We need understanding and a sense of fellowship between the peoples of the world. And Anekanta would give us a 'Weltanschauung' and a scientific interpretation of things. We shall then learn to love our neighbours as ourselves. We can still cherish the hope when power becomes ashamed to occupy its throne and when the morning comes cleansing the bloodstained steps of the nation, we shall be called upon to bring the spirit of Anekanta to sweeten the purity of human destiny.
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