Doctrine of Karma: A Scientific View
By D. S. Baya
Summary
In 'Doctrine of Karma: A Scientific View', the author interprets the Jain and Hindu doctrine of karma through the lens of modern science and philosophy. Karma is defined as a universal moral law that links actions to their consequences and operates independently of any supernatural deity. The article points out that some people view karma as divine retribution, while others see it as a natural law of cause and effect. It stresses that karma is not fatalistic but encourages ethical responsibility: our present circumstances result from past actions, and our current actions shape our future. The author compares the doctrine to Newtonian physics, drawing analogies between karmic reactions and the third law of motion, and argues that just as physical actions produce equal and opposite reactions, moral actions produce corresponding results. The article emphasises that karma influences not only our psychological state but also our social and ecological environment. It advocates for mindful conduct, compassion and nonviolence as ways to reduce karmic bondage and links karma to scientific ideas such as energy conservation and thermodynamics.
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Conclusion
The author concludes that karma should be understood as a scientific moral principle rather than a punitive religious doctrine. By framing karma as a natural law of causality, one can embrace ethical living without fear of divine wrath. This perspective encourages personal responsibility, compassion and social harmony, and it aligns spiritual emancipation with scientific rationality.