Back to: Educational Studies UGC NET – Unit 1
Explain the Concept and Aims of Education as per Vedanta Philosophy
Veda means “knowledge” and anta means “the end”. Vedanta is the end step to a spiritual journey. It is one of the oldest philosophies of the world. The three Vedic texts are: the Upanishads, the Brahma-sutras, and the Bhagavadgita. Vedanta focuses on self knowledge and is religion centred. The Vedanta philosophy of education emphasized a code of conduct for both teachers and students.
Vedanta promotes:
- (i). The oneness of existence,
- (ii). The divinity of the soul, and
- (iii). The harmony of all religions.
Aims of Education as per Vedanta Philosophy
The educational aims of Vedanta philosophy are:
i). Social development
Social values will inculcate knowledge, skills, beliefs, values, culture, religion, norms, language, etc followed since ages to new generations and so on. It changes the attitude, mindset, thinking, and lifestyle of people with time for a positive change and development of society. It will help to get rid of inequality, discrimination, injustice and poverty in society. Social values will instill discipline, obedience, and responsibility in people.
ii). Physical Development
Physical development is important to live a comfortable, fit and healthy life. To prevent pain and suffering, humans should follow a proper diet, do proper exercise, sleep early and wake up early.
iii). Emotional Development
It is the development of both body and mind. Loving oneself and thinking positively of one’s own self will lead to emotional development. A man must trust, believe, and have faith in himself and his potential. Emotional development will help in overcoming sadness, sorrow, and misery.
iv). Moral Development
Moral values play a crucial role in every individual’s life. Moral values guide people’s decisions in life. It helps in developing positive traits in a person such as kindness, compassion, humanity, honesty, and respect. Moral values such as discipline and obedience are developed in children through education.
v). Spiritual Development
Spiritual development leads to self realization and knowing oneself well. It will help in living a healthy, positive, balanced and meaningful life. One will understand how life should be lived with peace and harmony. Individuals will be aware of their thoughts, words and actions with others and towards the environment. Spiritual development is essential in living a happy, content and fulfilling life.
Vedanta Philosophy helps widely in determining the education system and its way of functioning. It benefits the teachers in teaching and the students in learning.
