Ambedkar and Pragmatism

Ambedkar’s Intellectual Influences:
During his studies at Columbia University, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was deeply influenced by John Dewey’s philosophy of pragmatism, which emphasized democracy as a way of life requiring active citizen participation. Dewey’s thoughts on education and social justice shaped Ambedkar’s belief in constitutional democracy. However, Ambedkar’s vision extended beyond Dewey.

He was also inspired by:

Mahatma Phule’s Anti-Caste Philosophy
Kabir’s Mystical Humanism
Fabian Socialism’s Economic Principles

Ambedkar’s lived experiences with untouchability and systemic caste oppression led him to conclude that caste could not be reformed but needed complete annihilation. This realization culminated in his adoption of Buddhism, offering him an ethical framework for spiritual and social liberation.

Broader Contributions:
Ambedkar’s vision of social justice went beyond pragmatic reforms, emphasizing radical social transformation to ensure equality and dignity for all.

Relevance to UPSC Exam Syllabus:

GS Paper 1 (Modern Indian History & Society):

Role in social reforms
Vision for social justice

GS Paper 2 (Polity & Governance):

Constitutional contributions
Ideas on democracy and state engagement

GS Paper 4 (Ethics):

Emphasis on justice, caste abolition, and ethical governance

Essay Paper:
Themes of Ambedkar’s pragmatism vs. radical reform, social justice, and constitutional morality.

Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) for UPSC CSE:

Which philosopher influenced Ambedkar’s belief in democracy as a way of life?
A) Karl Marx
B) John Dewey
C) Mahatma Phule
D) Adam Smith
Answer: B) John Dewey
Ambedkar’s adoption of Buddhism was primarily influenced by:
A) Political reforms
B) Economic policies
C) Social and spiritual liberation
D) Cultural diversity
Answer: C) Social and spiritual liberation
Which of the following movements did Ambedkar support to annihilate caste?
A) Fabian socialism
B) Mystical humanism
C) Constitutional democracy
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Ambedkar was influenced by Mahatma Phule’s philosophy on:
A) Secularism
B) Anti-caste reforms
C) Spirituality
D) Modern education
Answer: B) Anti-caste reforms
Ambedkar’s radical transformation efforts were a response to:
A) Land reforms
B) Caste-based oppression
C) Industrialization
D) Education policies
Answer: B) Caste-based oppression

Mains Question:

“Ambedkar’s vision of social justice was shaped by both pragmatic reforms and radical transformation.” Discuss how his influences and lived experiences guided his constitutional contributions and social philosophy. (250 words)

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