आर्थिक व्यवहार : अध्यात्म, नीतिमत्ता और शरीर धर्म
By प्रो. सुदर्शन आयंगार
Summary
The text discusses the relationship between economics, ethics, and spirituality, arguing that true economics must align with moral principles and social justice. It critiques economics that promotes wealth accumulation at the expense of the weak, calling it harmful. The discussion explores the historical tension between material existence (body-dharma) and spiritual goals (self-upliftment and liberation). It notes that while the body requires material resources, excessive focus on materiality leads to violence, greed, and unethical behavior. The article is structured in three parts: examining the link between non-violence and economics through religion, analyzing modern economics for religious values, and exploring the possibility of a non-violent economy. It references classical Indian economic thought, particularly Kautilya's Arthashastra, which integrates four disciplines: philosophy (anvikshiki), the three Vedas (trayi), economics (varta), and governance (dandaniti). Kautilya emphasizes that a ruler must control the senses and use a balanced approach, combining ethical disciplines with practical governance. The text contrasts spiritual (atma-centric) and materialistic (body-centric) worldviews, noting that materialism, as seen in Charvaka philosophy, prioritizes bodily pleasure and rejects spiritual values. It concludes that a ruler who neglects ethical and spiritual disciplines will fail to ensure both material and spiritual welfare of the people.
Conclusion
The document argues that true economics must be rooted in ethics and spirituality, warning that wealth-centered systems that exploit the weak are harmful. It explores the tension between material economic pursuits (body-dharma) and spiritual goals (self-upliftment), noting that unchecked materialism fosters violence, greed, and moral decay. By examining Kautilya’s Arthashastra, the text shows that ancient Indian thought integrated ethical disciplines like non-violence and self-restraint into economic governance. The key implication is that a just economy requires balancing material needs with spiritual values, using non-violence as a guiding principle. The outcome suggests that without such integration, economic systems become destructive, prioritizing consumption over human welfare and straying from the higher aims of life.