Approach:
- Introduction
- Discuss its relevance in the present context.
- Conclusion
The given statement implies that lack of knowledge (avidya) is detrimental to intellect and wisdom. Self-realization is the aim of education for Tagore. It means the realization of the universal soul in oneself. The aim of life is to achieve this status. It is a process, which cannot be realized without education.
Relevance in present context:
At present the education system is concentrated more towards stuffing pupils with knowledge and skills that could make them earn good livelihood. Inculcation of moral wisdom and spiritual self-understanding isn’t being given adequate leverage. Thus the following aspects of Tagore’s ideas on education are needed to be included in the existing education system:
- Self-Realization: Spiritualism is the essence of humanism; this concept has been reflected in Tagore’s educational philosophy. Self-realization is an important aim of education. Manifestation of personality depends upon the self-realization and spiritual knowledge of an individual.
- Intellectual Development: Tagore also greatly emphasized the intellectual development of the child. By intellectual development he means development of imagination, creative free thinking, constant curiosity and alertness of the mind. Child should be free to adopt his own way of learning which will lead to all round development.
- Physical Development: Tagore’s educational philosophy also aims at the physical development of the child. He gave much importance to a sound and healthy physique. There were different kinds of exercises. Yoga, games & sports prescribed in Santiniketan were an integral part of the education system.
- Love for humanity: Tagore held that the entire universe is one family. Education can teach people to realize oneness of the globe. Education for international understanding and universal brotherhood is another important aim of his educational philosophy. The feeling of oneness can be developed through the concepts like fatherhood of God and brotherhood of man all creatures are equal on this earth.
- Freedom: Freedom is considered as an integral aspect of human development. Education is a man-making process, it explores the innate power that exists within the man.
- Moral and Spiritual Development: Tagore emphasized moral and spiritual training in his educational thought. Moral and spiritual education is more important than bookish knowledge for an integral development of human personality. There must be an adequate provision for the development of selfless activities, co-operation and love fellow feeling and sharing among the students in educational institutions.
Tagore’s ideas on education would be valued in every age because they are based on inculcation of morality and spiritual understanding, intercultural understanding and peace, respect and intimacy with nature, social engagement and artistic abilities and creativity.