Gandhian values of Trusteeship rather than Western notions of Philanthropy are more relevant in contemporary times, marked by growing inequalities and marginalization due to the Covid crisis, said Professor Peter D’Souza, D.D. Kosambi Visiting Professor at Goa University, at a masterclass webinar organized by the Goa Business School today July 30.
Highlighting the nature and types of Philanthropic ideas from Western Corporate Houses ranging from Carnegie and Rockfeller to initiatives such as the Gates Foundation he pointed out that these often thrived on profit generation irrespective of the manner in which such enterprises affected social and ecological harmony. As a result, Philanthropy often divested itself from its moral obligations.
Gandhian ethos of Trusteeship on the other hand, derived from common ownership and responsibility rooted in traditional Indian notions of dharma and responsibility. It is not surprising therefore, that the world has seen an increase in the number of billionaires as poverty and deprivation has become more endemic, he pointed out. Therefore, there is a need to revisit the Gandhian values of Trusteeship and make it part of our modern corporate ethos.
The lecture was attended by students and faculty of various institutions across the country and was a precursor to a course on Trusteeship and Philanthropy soon to be offered by Prof. D’Souza, Prof. Koshy Tharakan, Head, Department of Philosophy moderated the event and Prof. Nilesh Borde from Goa Business School proposed the Vote of Thanks.
