Abstract

Generally speaking, man is perceived to be superior to all other species and the elemental world due to his power of thinking and reasoning. This paper examines the nature of the relationship between man and the universe in the philosophical and ethical systems of India; specifically Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism in comparison with the Western view. In the philosophies of the West, whether secular or religious, there seems to be a dichotomy between man and nature. On the basis of the comparative study, this paper discusses the need of understanding an ‘all-inclusive’ subsistence, i.e. the universe being one big cosmic entity and all other lives with souls or no souls, animate or inanimate, organic or non-organic are part of the totality of existence. Furthermore, in the maintenance of the health of biodiversity lies the health of all beings, including humans. In a true sense then, a human being has to become the ultimate measure - guardianprotector, but more importantly, a being of reason that understands the importance of bio-diversity for a sustainable world. This ideology can be labeled in philosophical terms as ‘Dignity of Diversity’, or ‘Organic Realism.’