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Which Internationalism ?

By T. L. Vaswani

Vol. 24 · No. 12December - 1928pp. 211–212English

Summary

The text discusses the limitations of European models for India and critiques certain forms of internationalism. It highlights Count Keyserling’s analysis of Europe’s exhausted civilization and England’s unfulfilled promises to India, arguing that British imperialism prioritizes power over moral law. The author warns against imitation of European systems, emphasizing India’s need to uphold its unique *dharma* and individuality. True internationalism, the text asserts, should align with humanism—a vision of divine humanity that transcends nation-centric or empire-centric ideologies. It critiques imperialism’s exploitation and advocates for a moral framework in global relations, drawing from both modern science and ancient Indian wisdom (*Rishis*). The text concludes that India’s progress lies in harnessing its inner spiritual and creative energy rather than emulating foreign models.

Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.

Conclusion

This document asserts that India's path forward must prioritize self-definition over imitation of European models, emphasizing the need to preserve its unique cultural and spiritual identity. It critiques superficial notions of internationalism that mask imperialist agendas, arguing instead for a humanist approach grounded in moral law and divine humanity. Count Keyserling’s analysis underscores the exhaustion of European civilization and the failure of British promises to India, highlighting the dangers of suppressing national individuality. The text champions India’s potential through inner creative energy, advocating a synthesis of modern science and ancient wisdom as the foundation for progress. True internationalism, it concludes, must elevate ethical principles above state-driven power dynamics to foster genuine global harmony.

Key passages

Chosen by AI from the article's text. Each one is checked word for word against the text before it is shown.

  • “I have urged again and again that India must be Hersell. She must understand the modern socio-economic forces; she must profit by the experiences and expeiiments of Europe.”
  • “The 'internationalism' that would truly help at once Europe and India is Humanism. It is the vision of Divine Humanity which is the nation's piteous need.”
  • “Stable peace in Europe can only be secured by bringing international relations under the Moral Law, that is to say, by insisting on States keeping the Law of God in their dealings with one another.”

Works cited in this article

  1. The European Spectrum
  2. Speeches and Documents on Indian policy
  3. The Principles of International Morality

Discussed in this article

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  • Europe
  • Principles of International Morality
  • European Spectrum
  • Speeches and Documents on Indian policy

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