Insights from the Economics of Jainism

Abstract

Economics is the science of prosperity. Hence, the desire for economic development is associated with the pursuit of higher income, a higher standard of living and, subsequently, more happiness in life. However, in the same breath, study after study have shown that this earning, accumulation and consumption of wealth is becoming a source of agony in people’s lives and derailing them from the path of happiness If happiness is the ultimate goal of every citizen, then shouldn’t we investigate the presumed links between wealth, happiness and peace from an economics lens? It is in this context that we go beyond modern economics and discuss the economics of Mahavira (founder of Jainism) or simply, the Economics of Jainism.