UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Vishesha is posited to account for the numerical distinctness of entities that are otherwise qualitatively identical, such as atoms of the same element or individual selves. It is an ultimate, non-shareable feature that prevents their collapse into a single entity. Without vishesha, the world would lack multiplicity at the fundamental level. Therefore the differentiating factor described in the stem is vishesha.

Option A:
Option A, samanya, is the universal that unites many individuals into one class and so plays the opposite role of highlighting commonality rather than difference.

Option B:
Option B is correct because vishesha literally means “particularity” and is used precisely to secure the individuality of basic entities. It ensures that there are many distinct selves and atoms instead of just one.

Option C:
Option C, samavaya, is the relation of inherence between entities like substance and attribute, not the differentiator of individuals.

Option D:
Option D, abhava, denotes types of non-existence and cannot serve as a positive principle of individuation.