Sambodhi 1989 Vol 16

Author(s): Ramesh S Betai, Yajneshwar S Shastri
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 98

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brink of collapse. The author here quotes Trotsky who stated in his Problems of life that:
"Gigantic events have descended on the family in its old shape, the war and the revolution.... we need more scientific economic reforms. Only under such conditions can we free the family from the functions and cares that now oppress and disintegrate it". (p. 21). We have today so many facilities like washing machines, catering, ultra modern facilities of sewing, ready-made clothes etc. on the increase. Still the ideas of relation between man and woman, parents and children, care of the old by their sons and daughters have changed fundamentally and these ideas are adversely affecting even those men and women who lead a family life in the traditional way. Values and concept of family of old are tottering and the prosperity and facilities of modern life have not given peace, smooth life and happiness to men, women and children born of modern marriages.
Radhakrishnan next turns to the state of politics in his days. In his rather quick survey he refers to the rise and state of democracy and democratic institutions the world over. He is specific when he states that
"We welcomed democracy as a release from autocratic rule, but we are not satisfied with its working today. We are coming to realise that government is a technical art and only those skilled in it can be the rulers. Democracy in its actual working rarely permits a country to be governed by its ablest men." (p. 22).
If we were to take a view of the state of affairs in India, we find that this is glaringly true. Our democracy has brought to the forefront the illeducated, rich, caste-ridden, religion-based and terror-inspiring men and groups to the forefront, so much so that the real ablest in the country feel that it is far better for them to remain away from politics. Rule of mediocres is the order of the day. The ideal of good and decent means for good and decent ends taught to us by Mahatma Gandhi and A. Huxley has failed. Come to power through the ballot-box by any means, by hook or by crook, is accepted as a normal practice. To a great extent terrorism, racialism, goondaism etc. that are becoming more and more pronounced with every election are the off-shoots of our ill-conceived democracy. Situation the world over is more or less the same. Political strifes, murders, revolts have become common in countries claiming to uphold real democracy. World over monarchies have been shattered. The glaring latest development in the west is the breaking down of communism in countries that were commu
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