Gandhian Economic Thought

by J.C. Kumarappa

72 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1951

About the author

J. C. Kumarappa (born Joseph Chelladurai Cornelius) (4 January 1892 – 30 January 1960) was an Indian economist and a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi. A pioneer of rural economic development theories, Kumarappa is credited for developing economic theories based on Gandhism – a school of economic thought he coined “Gandhian economics”.

Reviews

[Dixit · Rating 3 out of 5]

JC Kumarappa, disciple of MK Gandhi consolidates his thoughts on economy which Gandhi expressed in his numerous speeches. Gandhi's philosophy is centered around two basic ideas of TRUTH and NON-VIOLENCE and the same ideas guide his economic thought, as articulated by Kumarappa. Gandhi's main concerns were of "sustainability" and "harmony". According him India should not blindly borrow technology or model of growth from west but comprehensively analyze whats suitable to Indian conditions. Gandhi was against large scale industries and capitalism as it was practiced in west. He critiqued capitalism's materialistic approach, instead he advocated an approach which was centered around development of an individual spiritually, morally and economically. This makes it different from socialism, communism.
Though Gandhi's approach seems too idealistic but his concerns are quite relevant in today's age and time. It compels us to question our current model of development.

[Robert Fischer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very particular to it's historical context, but still has a very interesting argument about the proper role of commerce and economy in the nation...