Applications of Anekantavada: Jain Pluralism

Anekantavāda, the Jain doctrine of non-absolutism, asserts that reality is multifaceted and cannot be fully comprehended from a single standpoint. While its theoretical foundations have been extensively explored, its practical applications remain an area of growing scholarly interest. Jainism, through its principle of non-absolutism (anekäntavāda), offers a rigorous epistemological framework for engaging with reality in all its complexity.

This edited volume systematically examines the doctrine's relevance across disciplines, including philosophy, health sciences, education, physics, political theory, sociology, business, and media studies. In health and medicine, it provides a comprehensive approach to understanding wellness, vaccine hesitancy, and the spiritual dimensions of diet and fasting. In education, it promotes linguistic diversity and flexible teaching methodologies that accommodate multiple perspectives.

In physics and mathematics, it aligns with quantum theories and data science, advancing non-absolutist scientific inquiry. Within democracy and law, it fosters pluralistic governance and a broader approach to judicial decision-making. In sociology, it addresses political polarization and strengthens social cohesion. In business and mass media, it challenges rigid economic models and promotes diverse, inclusive narratives.

By engaging with contemporary challenges, the contributors present anekāntavāda as a significant methodological tool rather than a mere doctrinal principle. With contributions from leading scholars and the benefit of an extensive peer-review process, this book serves as a vital resource for researchers, educators, policy-makers, and general readers seeking to understand how non-absolutism can inform and reshape contemporary discourse. It invites further exploration of anekāntavāda as an essential tool for comprehending complexity in an interconnected world.

About the Author:

Dr. Shugan C. Jain, B.E. (DU), M.S. (NYU USA), MA & PhD in Jainology (JVBI); worked as management and information technology consultant and entrepreneur in the USA, The Netherlands and India (1962-2001). Involved in rehabilitating many Jain educational institutions in India. In 2005, promoted International School for Jain Studies (ISJS) and introduced academic studies of Jainism in global universities. Dr. Jain has published fifty papers and seven books on different aspects of Jain philosophy, ethics, history and culture, community, and application to resolve today's global issues.

Email: shuganjain1941@gmail.com

Dr. Preeti Rani Jain, a Faculty member at Hansraj College, Delhi University, is an esteemed scholar of Philosophy. She earned her PhD from Delhi University focusing on "Self and Personal Identity in Jainism." With over 11 years of teaching experience as an Assistant Professor at prestigious institutions, she has taught a diverse range of Philosophy papers including Indian Philosophy, Western Philosophy, Ethics, and Logic. Her contribution includes research papers and presentations at national and international conferences. Her notable works in Jainism explore topics such as Aparigraha: Ethics of Minimalism, Ancient Jain Wisdom, and democratic values, Vastu Svātantrayavāda, and Santhārā. Additionally, she has authored and translated units for IGNOU- UG, and PG Philosophy courses, and recorded lectures for the MOOC Course and Swayam portal.

E-mail: preetijain104@gmail.com