குறள் கூறும் அளவீடு, சமநிலை மற்றும் கணித ஒழுக்க நெறிகள்

Measurement, Balance, and Mathematical Ethics in the Tirukkural

Abstract

Thirukkural, the pinnacle of Tamil ethical literature, articulates the moral codes of human life in a highly condensed form. Concepts such as "Measurement" (Alavaridhal), "Moderation" (Midhathannai), "Equilibrium" (Samannilai), and "Justice" (Nyayam) are emphasized throughout the text. These are not merely moral precepts but are deeply interconnected with mathematical principles such as Measurement, Balance, Ratio, and Order. This paper examines the concepts of measurement and equilibrium in Thirukkural through the lens of "Mathematical Ethics." It highlights how measurement is indispensable in human actions and how immoderate behavior leads to ethical degradation.

In Thirukkural, "Measure" (Alavu) serves as a central theme. Valluvar insists that moderation must be observed in all aspects of life, including food, wealth, pleasure, pain, speech, and action. "Living within one's means" (Alavarindhu Vazhdhal) functions not just as a moral rule but as a mathematical equation. The verses concerning measurement in Thirukkural reflect a distinct mathematical methodology: since both excess and deficiency result in suffering, equilibrium is the fundamental basis for an ideal life.

For instance, in Inbathuppal (The Book of Love), Kural 1230 suggests that excessive passion beyond measure fails to yield true happiness. Similarly, in Porutpal (The Book of Wealth), Kural 883 explains that even enmity must be managed with calculated restraint. Thus, the mathematical principles of measurement, balance, and moderation are structured as ethical codes in Thirukkural. This study defines this integration as "Mathematical Ethics."