Born: 8 February 1819, England
Died: 20 January 1900, England
Keywords: Writer, Social Thinker, Philanthropist
John Ruskin (1819 – 1900) was the English art critic of the Victorian era. He wrote on various subjects like architecture, myth, literature, education, botany and political economy.
In 1904, Mahatma Gandhi had an unforgettable encounter with John Ruskin’s book 'Unto the Last', which created a lasting impact on Gandhi. He was highly influenced by Ruskin’s work which worked as a basis for his political philosophy and actions.
His ideology consisted of three fundamental aspects. First, the good of an individual is contained in the good of all, second, the work of a lawyer and a barber is equally dignified as long as they adhere to ethical ways of living. Third, labor involving physical labor, that is, the life of a tiller and a handicraftsman is a life worth living. The importance of physical labor is evident in Gandhi’s principle of ‘Nai Talim’ which is a principle stating that knowledge and work are not separate. Mahatma Gandhi promoted an educational curriculum which aims at 'Basic Education for all'.
Gandhi’s political ideology of Sarvodaya came into existence by amalgamation of John Ruskin’s teachings. The meaning of Sarvodaya is ‘equal upliftment of all’.
The principle of Sarvodaya includes the concept of ‘inclusive growth’ which is strongly rooted in the growth of a nation. It also lies in the development of all sections of society. Although ‘sarvodaya’ was a social ideology in fundamental form, it transformed itself into an urgent political doctrine after India gained independence.
