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In the insightful discourse titled "Economic and Moral Progress," Mohandas Gandhi contemplates the intricate relationship between economic and moral advancement. Drawing upon his own experiences and extensive studies, Gandhi posits that these two facets of progress are not only distinct but also often diametrically opposed. This essay delves into Gandhi's perspectives, emphasizing his reliance on religious texts and rhetorical devices to articulate a compelling argument.
At the outset, Gandhi asserts a clear dichotomy between economic and moral progress.
Acknowledging his limited knowledge of economics, he ardently champions the supremacy of moral progress over its economic counterpart. To underscore this point, he invokes biblical wisdom, urging individuals to "Take no thought for the morrow," advocating for the prioritization of morality over material gain (Gandhi 334). This sentiment, echoed in diverse religious scriptures globally, forms the bedrock of Gandhi's argument, firmly establishing economic and moral progress as distinct entities.
Delving further, Gandhi posits that economic progress, in common parlance, pertains to the accumulation of material wealth.
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In contrast, he defines moral progress as the pursuit of what he terms as "real progress" (Gandhi 334). A pivotal question arises as Gandhi probes, "Does not moral progress increase in the same proportion as material progress?" (Gandhi 334). Here, he scrutinizes the presumed correlation between economic and moral advancement, challenging the conventional belief that material progress does not impede moral development. Gandhi illustrates this notion with the "case of thirty millions of India," citing Sir William Wilson Hunter's assertion that meeting basic material needs precedes moral welfare (Gandhi 334).
However, Gandhi vehemently opposes this viewpoint, asserting that the fundamental rights to life, food, clothing, and shelter should not necessitate economic assistance (Gandhi 334).
He contends that the true measure of a nation's orderliness lies not in its number of millionaires but in the absence of starvation among its masses. This assertion, grounded in ethical principles, underlines Gandhi's conviction that economic progress serves as a mere vehicle with the potential for either moral growth or decay.
Gandhi elucidates the dual nature of economic progress through historical and cultural examples. Reflecting on his experiences in South Africa, he notes the societal belief that an increase in riches correlates with moral turpitude (Gandhi 335). This perspective challenges the notion that prosperity inherently aligns with ethical growth. Contrarily, Gandhi points to the decline and fall of civilizations like Rome and Egypt, as well as the Hindu deity Krishna, to argue that material gain does not necessarily translate to moral advancement (Gandhi 335).
Employing poignant imagery, Gandhi appeals to the emotions of his audience by describing a society tainted by the excesses of material wealth. He vividly paints a picture of gods unwilling to inhabit a land marred by the pollution of mill chimneys and factories, where roads echo with the clamor of rushing engines and cars filled with purposeless men (Gandhi 337). This powerful imagery underscores Gandhi's belief that the unchecked pursuit of material wealth corrodes societal values and impedes moral progress.
Gandhi's oratory is a tapestry woven with threads of ethos, pathos, and logos. Ethically, he draws extensively from religious texts and historical figures, establishing a moral foundation for his argument. Simultaneously, he employs pathos to evoke an emotional response, depicting a society where material progress has overshadowed spiritual and moral values.
Moreover, Gandhi appeals to the logical mind through the use of logos, quoting the British naturalist Alfred Wallace. Wallace's observation that as a country advances in riches, it simultaneously declines in morality serves as a compelling piece of evidence supporting Gandhi's central thesis (Wallace 338). Gandhi thus contends that contemporary society places undue emphasis on material wealth and economic prosperity at the expense of moral growth.
In conclusion, Mohandas Gandhi's discourse on "Economic and Moral Progress" delves into the intricate dynamics between these two facets of societal development. Through a judicious use of religious texts, historical examples, and rhetorical devices, Gandhi presents a compelling argument for the independence of economic and moral progress. While economic prosperity may act as a vehicle with the potential for either moral growth or decay, Gandhi's impassioned plea is unequivocal—the pursuit of material wealth should not compromise the fundamental principles of morality and human welfare.
Economic and Moral Progress: A Critical Analysis. (2016, Apr 01). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/mohandas-gandhi-a-moraleconomic-progress-essay
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