BUSINESS ETHICS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

ALM-1
TOPIC: GANDHIAN ETHICS
M. Chaitanya
2101510057
MBA; Sec-A

Contributions of Mahatma Gandhi regarding DEADLY SEVEN SINS and TRUSTEESHIP

Introduction:
Mahatma Gandhi was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement,
who also made significant contributions to the areas of ethics and social reform. In his
philosophy, he emphasized the need to eliminate what he called the "Deadly Seven
Sins": wealth without work, pleasure without conscience, knowledge without character,
commerce without morality, science without humanity, worship without sacrifice, and
politics without principle. Gandhi believed that these sins were responsible for much of
the world's suffering and injustice, and he worked tirelessly to promote values such as
honesty, integrity, and self-discipline.
DEADLY SEVEN SINS:
1)Wealth without work: Gandhi believed that accumulating wealth without earning it
through honest work was a form of exploitation that created social and economic
inequality.
2)Pleasure without conscience: Gandhi believed that seeking pleasure without regard for
moral or ethical considerations led to selfishness and a lack of concern for others.
3)Knowledge without character: Gandhi believed that acquiring knowledge without
developing a strong ethical and moral character could lead to arrogance and a lack of
compassion.
4)Commerce without morality: Gandhi believed that pursuing commerce and economic
gain without moral principles and consideration for the welfare of others led to
exploitation and social injustice.
5)Science without humanity: Gandhi believed that scientific advances without a
compassionate understanding of human needs and values could be harmful and
destructive.
6)Worship without sacrifice: Gandhi believed that religious worship without a
willingness to make sacrifices for the greater good was hypocritical and shallow.
7)Politics without principle: Gandhi believed that engaging in politics without a strong
ethical and moral foundation could lead to corruption and a disregard for the needs
of the people.
Gandhi emphasized the importance of personal responsibility in overcoming these sins and
creating a more just and compassionate society. He believed that individuals could make
a difference by living their lives in accordance with ethical and moral principles and by
working to promote social justice and equality
TRUSTEESHIP:
Another important aspect of Gandhi's philosophy was his concept of trusteeship.
According to this idea, wealthy individuals and business leaders had a moral
responsibility to use their resources to benefit society as a whole, rather than simply
pursuing their own self-interest. Gandhi believed that everyone had a duty to care for
and uplift the less fortunate, and that this responsibility extended even to those who
held positions of power and privilege.
Overall, Gandhi's contributions to ethics and social reform continue to inspire
people around the world today. His emphasis on personal responsibility, social justice,
and nonviolent resistance has influenced countless individuals and movements seeking to
make the world a better place.
Relevance to 21st century:
Mahatma Gandhi's teachings on the Deadly Seven Sins and Trusteeship continue to
have relevance in the 21st century. The Deadly Seven Sins (wealth without work,
pleasure without conscience, knowledge without character, commerce without morality,
science without humanity, worship without sacrifice, and politics without principle) are
still prevalent in modern society, and Gandhi's emphasis on the importance of personal
values and ethics remains relevant in a world where corruption and greed are often
rampant.
Similarly, Gandhi's concept of Trusteeship, which emphasizes the responsibility of
those who possess wealth or power to use it for the benefit of society as a whole, is
increasingly relevant in an era of growing economic inequality and environmental
degradation. The idea of using resources for the common good rather than for
individual gain is one that resonates with many in the 21st century, and Gandhi's
emphasis on the importance of social responsibility and collective action continues to
inspire social and environmental movements around the world.
In summary, Mahatma Gandhi's teachings on the Deadly Seven Sins and
Trusteeship remain relevant and important in the 21st century, as they continue to offer
guidance on how to live a meaningful and ethical life, and how to work towards a
more just and equitable society.