Humanistic Trends in Contemporary Indian Thoughts

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Humanism, though rooted in ancient sociopolitical thought, emerged as a distinct philosophy during the Renaissance, championed by thinkers like Erasmus, Sir Thomas More, and F.C.S. Schiller. These humanists emphasized the development of individual potential for societal betterment, prioritizing the natural, human, and secular over the supernatural and theological. Humanism posits that man is the measure of all things, focusing on human interests and employing reason and scientific methods to address human problems. Alexander Pope encapsulated this view with the dictum, "The proper study of mankind is man." The 18th-century philosophers further advanced humanism by challenging dogmas and advocating for justice and reason. In the 20th century, humanism evolved into a global movement promoting the greatest good for all humanity, emphasizing reason, democracy, and the integration of emotions with reason. It advocates for peace and technology for human welfare, seeing good and evil as human constructs. Humanism, encompassing various forms across ages and regions, signifies a transition from medieval to modern thought, celebrating human potential and intellectual freedom.

Dr. Sunita Bathla is a distinguished professor in the Department of Philosophy, known for her profound contributions to the academic field and her commitment to fostering intellectual growth among her students. With a rich background in philosophical studies, Dr. Bathla has dedicated her career to exploring diverse philosophical traditions and contemporary issues. Her research interests span across various branches of philosophy, including ethics, metaphysics, and existentialism, where she has published numerous papers and articles in reputable journals. Dr. Bathla is renowned for her engaging teaching style, which encourages critical thinking and open dialogue. She emphasizes the importance of understanding philosophical concepts not just as academic exercises but as tools for navigating real-world challenges. Her classes are known for their rigorous analytical approach, combined with a supportive learning environment that nurtures students' intellectual curiosity. Beyond her teaching and research, Dr. Bathla actively participates in academic conferences and seminars, contributing to the broader philosophical community. She is also involved in mentoring young scholars, guiding them through their academic journeys with her extensive knowledge and experience. Dr. Sunita Bathla's dedication to philosophy and education has made her a respected figure in her field, inspiring both her colleagues and students.

Many writers have dealt with contemporary Indian thought in its various phases, but most of them have studied it from metaphysical and religious standpoints. The present study is intended to examine recent Indian thought or its representative thinkers from the point of view of humanism. Four important thinkers of the recent past have been selected for intensive study. Rabindra Sath Tagore was both a humanist and a religious poet, in addition to being a poet of nature, beauty and love. Mahatma Gandhi was primarily a saint and a prophet; yet he was a saint and a religious prophet with a difference. Probably he is the first important Indian religious teacher who identified religion with the service of man. R.N. Tagore wanted Indian humanity to progress though realisation of unity of men. Gandhi wanted to build Indian Independence on an ethical basis. Both these thinkers, however, were deeply rooted in the Indian spiritual tradition. On the other hand, Manabendra Nath Roy and Jawahar Lal Nehru were representatives of the modern age. They were mainly interested in socio-economic progress of the country within a democratic framework.

They were secular humanists who had been influenced by scientific and political ideas of the age.

I am well aware of the fact that there are other eminent contemporary Indian humanists who do not find a place in the present work. The reason why I have confined my study to few is to be in a position to make intensive study of the thinkers selected.

Humanism, though rooted in ancient sociopolitical thought, emerged as a distinct philosophy during the Renaissance, championed by thinkers like Erasmus, Sir Thomas More, and F.C.S. Schiller. These humanists emphasized the development of individual potential for societal betterment, prioritizing the natural, human, and secular over the supernatural and theological. Humanism posits that man is the measure of all things, focusing on human interests and employing reason and scientific methods to address human problems. Alexander Pope encapsulated this view with the dictum, "The proper study of mankind is man." The 18th-century philosophers further advanced humanism by challenging dogmas and advocating for justice and reason. In the 20th century, humanism evolved into a global movement promoting the greatest good for all humanity, emphasizing reason, democracy, and the integration of emotions with reason. It advocates for peace and technology for human welfare, seeing good and evil as human constructs. Humanism, encompassing various forms across ages and regions, signifies a transition from medieval to modern thought, celebrating human potential and intellectual freedom.

Dr. Sunita Bathla is a distinguished professor in the Department of Philosophy, known for her profound contributions to the academic field and her commitment to fostering intellectual growth among her students. With a rich background in philosophical studies, Dr. Bathla has dedicated her career to exploring diverse philosophical traditions and contemporary issues. Her research interests span across various branches of philosophy, including ethics, metaphysics, and existentialism, where she has published numerous papers and articles in reputable journals. Dr. Bathla is renowned for her engaging teaching style, which encourages critical thinking and open dialogue. She emphasizes the importance of understanding philosophical concepts not just as academic exercises but as tools for navigating real-world challenges. Her classes are known for their rigorous analytical approach, combined with a supportive learning environment that nurtures students' intellectual curiosity. Beyond her teaching and research, Dr. Bathla actively participates in academic conferences and seminars, contributing to the broader philosophical community. She is also involved in mentoring young scholars, guiding them through their academic journeys with her extensive knowledge and experience. Dr. Sunita Bathla's dedication to philosophy and education has made her a respected figure in her field, inspiring both her colleagues and students.

Many writers have dealt with contemporary Indian thought in its various phases, but most of them have studied it from metaphysical and religious standpoints. The present study is intended to examine recent Indian thought or its representative thinkers from the point of view of humanism. Four important thinkers of the recent past have been selected for intensive study. Rabindra Sath Tagore was both a humanist and a religious poet, in addition to being a poet of nature, beauty and love. Mahatma Gandhi was primarily a saint and a prophet; yet he was a saint and a religious prophet with a difference. Probably he is the first important Indian religious teacher who identified religion with the service of man. R.N. Tagore wanted Indian humanity to progress though realisation of unity of men. Gandhi wanted to build Indian Independence on an ethical basis. Both these thinkers, however, were deeply rooted in the Indian spiritual tradition. On the other hand, Manabendra Nath Roy and Jawahar Lal Nehru were representatives of the modern age. They were mainly interested in socio-economic progress of the country within a democratic framework.

They were secular humanists who had been influenced by scientific and political ideas of the age.

I am well aware of the fact that there are other eminent contemporary Indian humanists who do not find a place in the present work. The reason why I have confined my study to few is to be in a position to make intensive study of the thinkers selected.