Integral Humanism, as advocated by Deendayal Upadhyaya, is a socio-political and philosophical ideology that emerged as a guiding principle for the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the precursor to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India. Upadhyaya’s integral humanism is rooted in the Indian tradition and offers a distinctive perspective on politics, economics, and social organization. Here are the key characteristics of integral humanism:
- Spiritual Foundation: Integral Humanism is deeply rooted in India’s spiritual and philosophical traditions, drawing inspiration from concepts such as dharma (duty), karma (action), and the pursuit of higher moral and ethical values. It emphasizes the spiritual and cultural heritage of India as a guiding force for society.
- Holistic Approach: Upadhyaya’s integral humanism rejects the compartmentalization of life into separate spheres like economics, politics, and culture. It promotes a holistic approach that integrates all aspects of human existence – material, intellectual, moral, and spiritual – into a harmonious whole.
- Human-Centric: At the core of integral humanism is the belief that the individual human being is the central focus of all social, political, and economic activities. It advocates for the promotion of human dignity, freedom, and well-being.
- Decentralization: Upadhyaya argued for decentralized governance and economic planning. He believed that local self-governance and community-based decision-making were essential for empowering individuals and ensuring the welfare of all. This perspective aligns with the idea of “Ekatma Manav Darshan,” or the “Integral Human Vision.”
- Economic Self-Reliance: Integral Humanism promotes the idea of economic self-reliance, wherein India should strive to meet its own needs and reduce dependency on foreign aid or imports. This is often summarized as “Swadeshi,” which means the promotion of indigenous industries and products.
- Cultural Preservation: Upadhyaya emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage. He believed that culture is the soul of a nation and that modernization should not come at the expense of cultural erosion.
- Social Harmony: Integral Humanism advocates for social harmony and the eradication of social disparities. It acknowledges the importance of social justice and inclusivity while respecting the diversity of Indian society.
- Democratic Values: While emphasizing the importance of individual rights and freedoms, Upadhyaya’s integral humanism aligns with democratic principles. It believes in the democratic process and the rule of law.
- Nationalism: Integral Humanism is rooted in a strong sense of nationalism, where the well-being and progress of the nation are paramount. It advocates for a united and strong India.
- Critique of Materialism: Upadhyaya criticized excessive materialism and consumerism, highlighting the need for a balance between material and spiritual values in society.
Integral Humanism has had a lasting influence on Indian political thought, particularly within the ideological framework of the BJP. It seeks to reconcile modernity with tradition, individualism with collectivism, and material progress with spiritual values. While it may not be the dominant ideology in Indian politics, it continues to shape the philosophical underpinnings of some political and social movements in the country.