Science And Jain Philosophy

This document is the souvenir for the International Conference on Science and Jain Philosophy, held from January 8-10, 2016, at IIT Bombay, Powai, Mumbai. Organized by the Bhagawan Mahavira International Research Centre (BMIRC) of Jain Vishva Bharati Institute (JVBI) in collaboration with IIT Bombay and the University of Mumbai, the conference aimed to foster a dialogue between scientific inquiry and Jain philosophical principles.

The souvenir features an editorial by Dr. Raksha J. Shah, emphasizing the growing need for the amalgamation of science and spirituality for peace and bliss. It highlights how modern youth seek scientific validation for religious tenets and how bridging this gap can lead to a better understanding and application of Jain principles in contemporary society.

The conference schedule outlines a comprehensive program with various technical sessions, parallel sessions, workshops, panel discussions, and a documentary, covering topics such as:

• Relativism and Jain Logic
• Soul and Consciousness
• Relevance of Jainism in Modern Times
• Laws of Nature and Karma Theory
• Environment and Ecology
• Science and Spirituality
• Macrocosmology and Microcosmology (Paramanu and Atom)
• Jain Culture, Literature, and Science
• Jain Mathematics and its Importance
• Scientific-cum-Spiritual Techniques for Moral Values and EQ development
• International and National Collaboration for Integrating Jainism and Science

The publication includes messages from prominent dignitaries, including the Governor of Maharashtra, Union Ministers of Science & Technology and AYUSH, and the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, all expressing support for the conference's goal of exploring the intersection of science and Jain traditions.

Several articles contribute to the conference's theme:

• Acharya Mahapragya discusses the interconnectedness of religion and the environment, emphasizing a comprehensive worldview.
• Dr. R. Rasturirangan reflects on science and philosophy's role in societal progress, drawing parallels between ancient Indian philosophical schools and modern science.
• Dr. Gary Zukav explores the concepts of love and fear as driving forces in personal and global transformation.
• Prof. Muni Mahendra Kumar posits a formula for peace: Science (S1) + Spirituality (S2) = Peace (P).
• Prof. Dr. Kanti V. Mardia proposes a modern treatment of Jainism's eight karmic components, framing them in terms of quotients and coding.
• Dr. Natubhai Shah provides a scientific explanation for shedding karma through meditation.
• Prof. Dipak C. Jain discusses the relevance of Jain ethics in business and leadership.
• Dr. H. R. Nagendra and Raghunandan highlight the role of Jain ethics in promoting peace.
• Prof. Dr. Ranjit Nair examines the interplay of science and Jain philosophy within Indian traditions, noting parallels with modern scientific concepts.
• Dr. Narayan Lal Kachhara argues for science and spirituality as complementary partners in understanding reality.
• Prof. Narendra Bhandari explores Jain scriptures for insights that predate modern scientific discoveries.
• Dr. Samani Chaitanya Prajna delves into the philosophical underpinnings of spirituality in Jainism, focusing on the soul, cosmos, karma, and action.
• Dr. K.P. Mishra advocates for the integration of science and spirituality for future development, highlighting the limitations of each when pursued in isolation.
• Dr. Surendra Singh Pokharna emphasizes the need to propagate the concept of non-violence to a global audience.
• Dr. Muni Abhijit Kumar discusses unlocking life's mysteries through the combined pursuit of science and spirituality.
• Dr. Bimal Chhajer outlines the scientific health benefits derived from Jain principles like vegetarianism and meditation.
• Dr. Hemali Sanghavi provides a historical overview of Jainism and its contributions to Indian culture.

The souvenir also includes profiles of dignitaries and eminent speakers, showcasing their expertise and contributions to their respective fields. The overall message is one of synergy between scientific knowledge and spiritual wisdom to create a more peaceful, enlightened, and harmonious world.