Pluralism

 In ancient India, diverse views were in constant dialogue and debate with one another. The Jains were active participants in the debates, and among their central tenets was the position referred to as ‘anekantavada’.

 Translated literally, it means ‘no-one-perspective-ism’. It refers to the multiplicity and relativity of views. By this, Jains meant that in the arguments espoused by the various participants in a debate all held some validity… an acceptance of pluralism.

 The promise of pluralism is that it leads to ‘the common good’. Aristotle conceived ‘the common good’ to refer to anything that is of benefit to and shared by all or most. Buddhism refers to it as ‘Bahujan Hitay’ (in the interest of most).

 The philosophy of pluralism suggests that we really can and should ‘all just get along.’ Recognized as an essential element of democracy by philosophers of Ancient Greece, pluralism permits and encourages a diversity of political opinion and participation.

 It is pertinent to note that in today’s world, we find it difficult to get along with diversity of opinions and even suggestions in a discourse. We are hostile to thinking that differs with ours. Hence we see dislike and hatred on the rise.

 Pluralism holds that people of different beliefs, backgrounds and lifestyles can coexist in the same society and participate equally in the social and political process. For the ‘common good’ of all, we must choose the pluralism prism and ‘get along’ with all.

 All of us can surely ‘get along’

By singing the pluralism song! 

 - Pravin K Sabnis