Integral Humanism (Ekatm Manavvad)

Introduction

In the mid-1960s, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya introduced Ekatma Manav Darshan (Integral Humanism) as an indigenous ideological framework for India's post-independence development. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, Integral Humanism philosophy serves as a guiding light, reminding us of the intrinsic value of human dignity, harmony, and solidarity in shaping an equitable and prosperous society.

About Integral Humanism Philosophy (or Ekatma Manav Darshan)

• The aim of Integral Humanism is to ensure dignified life for every human being while balancing the needs of individual and society.
  • This framework emphasized the integration of spiritual, social, and economic aspects of human life, aiming to create a harmonious society.
• At the heart of Integral Humanism lies the concept of Purusharthas – the four cardinal goals that delineate the purpose and trajectory of human existence
  • Purusharthas refer to the four aims or goals of human life: Dharma (righteousness), Artha (wealth/prosperity), Kama (pleasure/desire), and Moksha (liberation).
• The doctrine of 'integral humanism' was born from the desire to have 'uniquely Indian' ideas guiding the journey of the newly independent nation, as opposed to the many Western 'isms.
  • Deendayal Upadhyaya rejected the approach of excessive Capitalist Individualism and the rigid Marxist Socialism.
• The philosophy of integral humanism is based on the following three principles: 
  • Primacy of whole, no part 
  • Supremacy of Dharma 
  • Autonomy of society

Core tenets of Integral Humanism in contemporary times

• Cultural nationalism (Bharatiyata): Integral Humanism advocates for a development approach that respects and integrates indigenous knowledge, traditions, and lifestyles while embracing modern advancements. 
• Social integration and harmony: It calls for social harmony and the eradication of caste discrimination, aiming to build a society based on equality and justice. 
• Antyodaya (Upliftment of the Last Person): It argued that economic policies should first uplift the poorest sections of society rather than focus solely on industrial and urban growth.
  • His vision of 'education for all' and 'har hath ko kam, har khet ko pani' was seen culminating in his idea of Economic Democracy.
• Ethical Governance: The concept of Model State (Dharma Rajya) is not confined to freedom for religious practices but represents righteousness, moral values, and transparent governance. 
• Decentralization: It proposed a self-reliant village-based economy. It allows the communities to manage their own development based on their unique needs and resources.

About Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay (1916–1968) He was an Indian philosopher, economist, sociologist, historian and political activist. Born in Mathura District (Uttar Pradesh). He became President of Bhartiya Jana sangh in 1967. Books: Samrat Chandragupt, Jagatguru Shankaracharya, Political Diary etc. He was the editor of the weekly Panchajanya and the daily Swadesh Similarities with Gandhi: Upadhya philosophies were similar to Gandhiji's Sarvodaya (welfare of all), Gram Swaraj, against untouchability and social injustice, etc.