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Radical Democracy
Context
In times of crisis, the need for societal reorganization becomes apparent. The 19th-century liberal democracy, once celebrated, had deteriorated into exploitation under capitalism. Faced with this reality, many sought alternatives to a system built on "every man for himself." However, the initial enthusiasm for revolution faded as communism and fascism led to dictatorship and global conflict.
Emergence of a New Ideology
- Amidst this turmoil, Indian freedom fighter ManabendraNath Roy (1887-1954) and his colleagues proposed a solution that merged freedom with justice: scientific humanism. This philosophy, enriched by scientific advancements, aimed to reconcile human aspirations with societal needs.
- Rejection of Totalitarianism: Roy vehemently opposed totalitarianism and the regression into old-world theology. He believed that true freedom could only arise from rational thought and individual empowerment.
- Reimagining Democracy:Traditional liberal democracies failed to address societal inequities, leading to the rise of demagoguery and political disillusionment. Roy advocated for a radical democratic approach, where people actively participate in political processes and elect independent candidates.
- Economic Justice: There is the need for economic restructuring to prioritize human needs over profit. Solutions like agricultural modernization, social security, and equitable industrializationcan be effective to uplift the masses.
Why Radical Democracy?
- Democracy, rooted in civilization, relies on the recognition of individual freedoms.
- Economic exploitation breeds political tyranny, thus, the importance of a democratic society based on justice and freedom increases.
- This vision underscores the ethical obligation to uphold democratic values in the face of political disillusionment and authoritarianism. It calls for a society where justice, freedom, and human dignity are paramount.
Concept Box:Radical Democracy
Scientific Humanism
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