Advait, is a journey beyond nullius in verba. Nullius in verba is epithetic of a modern traditions in natural science. The phrase though born in the finest examples of ancient Europe, adopted at the inflexion towards the industrial revolution has served a purpose well. Now as we enter a new era a more pertinent epithet is required that is beyond nullius in verba. A true understanding of human society and all its essence is significant. This understanding will be a journey guided by the most ancient of traditions. This will be a journey from the unreal to the real – which also means “Om Asato Maa Sad-Gamaya (ॐ असतो मा सद्गमय)”
The process of human development in the modern era has been guided by various principles. Among them one prominent epithet is ‘Nullius in verba’ meaning ‘take nobody’s word for it’. This principle primarily had implications in Natural Sciences and used as a motto for the Royal Society. It has far reaching implications and to quote the Royal Society, the motto ‘is an expression of the determination of Fellows to withstand the domination of authority and to verify all statements by an appeal to facts determined by experiment’.
The principle has served its purpose well in the modern era. However, with ever increasing complexities and diversities of human society, the need or extension for ‘experiments’ in social sciences and studies become an extension of an obdurate philosophical tendency which serves no purpose. The observable societal fractures around the world necessitates a discourse which would need to go Beyond Nullius in verba.
Advait World is a journey in this new direction. Advait World will be a platform for enquiry into various fields with new frameworks developed with the help of the various kinds of wisdom of Ancient India, in particular Advait. Advait World will, to begin with, deal with issues of local governance and corresponding policy. The discourse will certainly include discussions on technology, sustainability, inclusion, and, economic and social development in India.
It is interesting to note that the President of the Royal Society, as of 2020, is a person of Indian origin, Dr. Venkatraman Ramakrishnan.
No Comments