Inspired by this answer...
Is the specific formulation of Dependent Origination in the early buddhist texts an upaya and/or skillful means?
If so, how approximate is it? Are there other conceptual elaborations that improve upon it?
If it is an upaya, what is the purpose or motivation of teaching it originally thousands of years ago?
Is it different today?
Has our modern conception of physics and psychology led to the development of other upayas that may or may not share some of the motivation or benefits of the original?
There are parts of the early buddhist texts that include teachings on the Four Primary Elements of Earth, Water, Fire and Wind. Was this an upaya? Has modern physics provided an update to this upaya that has the same benefits as a better conceptual elaboration of the underlying truth? If not, in what way is the original better?
If you think the teaching on Four Primary Elements was an upaya or skillful means, but one that has been succeeded by a better modern version in physics and chemistry... do you think Dependent Origination is also something that could or should be updated... or one that even has been already been updated/replaced?
Thanks!