Aparigraha The Humane Solution

Here's a comprehensive summary of "Aparigraha: The Humane Solution" by Dr. Kamla Jain, based on the provided text:

Overall Theme and Argument:

Dr. Kamla Jain's book, "Aparigraha: The Humane Solution," argues that the modern world's relentless pursuit of material advancement, driven by science and technology, has led to severe consequences for human well-being and even survival. The author posits that the core of these problems lies in consumerism and the resulting environmental degradation. The humane solution she champions is Aparigraha, a fundamental principle of Jainism and universal ethics, which translates to the control of desires and material possessions, also known as iccha-parimana or parigraha-parimana.

Key Arguments and Structure:

The book is structured into three interconnected essays that systematically explore the problem and present the solution:

Chapter 1: Consumerism - The Anti-Human Goal

• The Problem of Consumerism: The author critiques the modern concept of "development" that equates happiness with material consumption. She defines consumerism as the wasteful and destructive pursuit of goods, driven by self-interest rather than social welfare. This contrasts with the concept of "use" which implies purposefulness.
• Causes and Consequences: Consumerism is linked to post-Industrial Revolution economic philosophies that prioritize endless growth and production, often driven by advertising that creates artificial wants. The consequences are severe:
  • Social Ills: Increased restlessness, anxiety, stress, mental disturbance, corruption, social disharmony, inequality, and crime.
  • Economic Ills: Inflation, wastage, and the creation of artificial needs leading to a "spiral" of production and consumption.
  • Ethical Decay: The erosion of moral values, the prioritization of individual gain over societal welfare, and the instrumentalization of others.
• Areas of Consumerism: The book highlights consumerism's pervasive influence beyond material goods, extending to news, media, sports, and even religion, where novelty and speed often overshadow substance and value.
• The Economics of Wastage: Jain argues that modern economics has become synonymous with wastage, turning "economy" into "diseconomy." She criticizes the focus on "more production" and "more variety" without considering the ethical implications or genuine needs.
• Solutions: The author suggests controlling consumerism through:
  • Education: Fostering awareness about social causes, promoting critical thinking, and guiding children towards responsible consumption and values.
  • State Intervention: Implementing policies like regulating car manufacturing to reduce traffic and pollution.
  • Religious Guidance: Encouraging religious leaders to preach an anti-consumerist lifestyle.
  • Voluntary Simplicity: Overhauling attitudes towards possessions, reducing the gap between intellectual understanding and emotional desires, and finding fulfillment in intrinsic pursuits.
  • Iccha-Parimana (Limitation of Desires): This is presented as the ultimate practical solution, emphasizing self-discipline and the control of wants.

Chapter 2: Environmental Degradation - Risk to Human Survival

• The Link to Consumerism: This chapter establishes environmental degradation as a direct and logical consequence of consumerism and the relentless pursuit of industrial growth. The exploitation of natural resources for consumption has disrupted the equilibrium of nature.
• Man's Changing Relationship with Nature: The author traces humanity's historical shift from revering nature to conquering and exploiting it. This anthropocentric worldview, supported by certain philosophical and religious interpretations, has led to a destructive relationship.
• Meaning of Environment: The book distinguishes between the physical and operational (social, ethical, economic) environments, emphasizing that changes in the latter are crucial for preserving the former.
• Causes and Consequences of Degradation: Factors like industrialization, urbanization, over-population, and moral degeneration contribute to pollution of air, water, and sound. Deforestation leads to the emergence of new diseases, and drug-resistant microbes pose a significant threat.
• Critique of "Development": Jain criticizes the modern definition of development as solely equating to industrialization, which often prioritizes economic growth at the expense of environmental sustainability. She advocates for a more holistic approach that considers the well-being of both humanity and nature.
• Solutions and Perspectives:
  • Conservation Efforts: Suggests measures like promoting renewable energy, waste recycling, and environmental education.
  • Spiritual Dimension: Argues that a spiritual perspective, viewing nature as sacred and recognizing interdependence, is vital for resisting the "rape of nature" and promoting sustainable development.
  • Classical Indian Thought: Highlights the ancient Indian emphasis on the harmonious relationship between man and nature, as seen in Vedic literature, Sanskrit dramas like Abhijñāna Śākuntalam, and the Sāmkhya philosophy. This contrasts sharply with the modern exploitative approach.
  • Jain and Gandhian Approaches: Praises Jain ethics for its emphasis on non-violence and control of desires, and Gandhi's environmentalism rooted in his principles of simplicity, non-possession, and trusteeship.

Chapter 3: Aparigraha - The Humane Solution

• The Importance of Aparigraha: Jain reiterates that Aparigraha, or the limitation of desires and possessions, is the essential humane solution to the interconnected problems of consumerism and environmental degradation. It's not about radical renunciation but a practical, rational principle for individual and social well-being.
• Meaning of Aparigraha: The term is analyzed in detail, encompassing both external possessions (bāhya parigraha) and internal attachment/desire (abhyantara parigraha or mūrchā). True Aparigraha involves controlling desires and avoiding excessive accumulation.
• Fundamental Postulates: Jain outlines key principles underpinning Aparigraha: happiness and peace come from within, external possessions are for use, not ownership, human potential is not solely based on possessions, and controlling desires leads to inner strength and prevents negative passions.
• Aparigraha in Various Traditions: The book explores Aparigraha's presence and interpretation in:
  • Brahmanical Texts: Found in Upanishads and the duties of ascetics, emphasizing non-attachment.
  • Pātañjala Yoga: Listed as a yama (moral restraint), interpreted as abstinence from accepting gifts and the control of desires.
  • Jainism: A core principle for both monks (mahāvrata) and householders (aṇuvrata), with detailed classifications and rules to guide practice.
  • Buddhism: While not explicitly in the five śīlas for laity, it's present in monastic codes and emphasizes detachment and modest living.
  • Christianity and Islam: Found in injunctions against covetousness and the emphasis on charity and voluntary donation, promoting social justice and curbing worldly attachments.
  • Mahatma Gandhi: His philosophy of trusteeship embodies Aparigraha by advocating for responsible stewardship of wealth for societal welfare.
• Comparison with Dāna and Santosha: Jain distinguishes Aparigraha from dāna (giving gifts), viewing the latter as a feudalistic virtue and the former as a more socialist and fundamental principle for social equality. Santosha (contentment) is seen as a further development and practical manifestation of Aparigraha.
• Socialism and Communism: While acknowledging the shared goal of economic equality, Jain points out the fundamental difference in methods. Socialism/Communism often relies on revolution, which she argues contradicts the ethical foundation of Aparigraha.
• The Humane Solution: Ultimately, Jain concludes that Aparigraha, or the limitation of desires and possessions, is the only humane and sustainable solution to the multifaceted crises facing humanity, offering a balanced approach that benefits both individuals and society.

Author's Perspective:

Dr. Kamla Jain, a philosophy teacher, approaches these complex issues with a critical, analytical, and reflective mindset. While acknowledging limitations in her expertise in fields like environmental science, she clearly articulates her profound concern for humanity's well-being and survival. She emphasizes the ethical dimension of these issues and advocates for a shift towards a more humanistic and sustainable way of life.

In essence, "Aparigraha: The Humane Solution" presents a compelling case for a paradigm shift from a consumerist, materialistic worldview to one that embraces simplicity, ethical responsibility, and a deep respect for nature, all grounded in the ancient wisdom of Aparigraha.