Sarvodayni Jivankala - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of "Sarvodayni Jivankala" (The Art of Living Together) by L.P. Jacks, translated by Gopaldas Jivabhai Patel, published by Gujarat Vidyapith:

Overall Theme and Purpose:

The book, originally titled "Constructive Citizenship," is a profound exploration of what it means to be a constructive citizen in a society, focusing on the "art of living together." It moves beyond mere political or economic structures to delve into the underlying principles and practices that foster a harmonious and purposeful collective life. The author, L.P. Jacks, a prominent intellectual of his time, emphasizes a "constructive" approach, advocating for the development of individual character and capabilities as the foundation for societal well-being.

Key Concepts and Arguments:

The Primacy of the Industrial/Worker Aspect of Citizenship: Jacks argues that a citizen's primary identity and role in society is that of a "worker" or an "industrial person." This focus on contribution and skilled labor is presented as more fundamental than their political identity. The book stresses that genuine citizenship is rooted in performing one's work with integrity, skill, and a sense of responsibility, rather than solely through participation in political processes like voting.
Emphasis on "Quality" over "Quantity" (Kaal-Bhavana vs. Desh-Bhavana): A central theme is the importance of understanding things through the lens of "time-consciousness" (Kaal-Bhavana) rather than solely "space-consciousness" (Desh-Bhavana). Space-consciousness, often driven by mechanical thinking and a focus on tangible results or "quantity," can lead to superficiality and a lack of lasting value. Time-consciousness, on the other hand, focuses on the "quality" and the ongoing process, recognizing that true progress lies in continuous effort, skill development, and the nurturing of character, which evolve over time. This is likened to the difference between a static snapshot and a dynamic process.
The Importance of "Skill" and "Craftsmanship": Jacks champions the idea that skill and craftsmanship are not just vocational attributes but are essential for individual fulfillment and societal progress. He argues that engaging in skilled work cultivates discipline, character, and a sense of purpose, transforming mere labor into a noble pursuit. The degradation of skill in the industrial age, leading to monotonous and dehumanizing work, is a significant concern.
"Trusteeship" as the Core of Citizenship: The concept of "trusteeship" is presented as the ethical bedrock of citizenship. Jacks defines a trustee as someone who is entrusted with responsibilities and inspires confidence, not just to fulfill duties legally but to do so honorably. This extends to all aspects of life, including economic and social interactions, where individuals are trustees of resources, opportunities, and the well-being of others. This notion resonates with the Jain concept of Sarvodaya (welfare of all).
Critique of Superficial "Happiness" and the Emphasis on "Duty": Jacks critiques the modern pursuit of mere "happiness" as a societal goal, arguing that it can lead to superficiality and a lack of genuine engagement. He proposes that true fulfillment comes from fulfilling one's duties and embracing challenges, even if they involve hardship or struggle. He suggests that the right to suffer or to embrace difficulty is perhaps the most valuable right, as it fosters growth and purpose.
The Role of "Cooperation" and "Fellowship": While acknowledging the importance of cooperation, Jacks distinguishes it from mere mechanical efficiency. True cooperation, he argues, arises from a shared moral purpose and requires continuous effort and commitment. He emphasizes that superficial cooperation, devoid of genuine moral underpinnings, is ultimately unsustainable. The ideal society is one where individuals are bound by mutual trusteeship and loyalty in their daily endeavors.
The Interconnectedness of Individual and Society: The book posits that the well-being of the individual and the society are intrinsically linked. A society that fosters individual skill development and character building indirectly strengthens itself. Conversely, a society that neglects the development of its citizens' capabilities and character ultimately undermines its own foundations.
Critique of Mere Political or Programmatic Solutions: Jacks expresses skepticism towards purely political or programmatic solutions to societal problems. He believes that lasting change stems from a shift in attitude and the cultivation of a deeper "spirit" or "consciousness" among individuals. The focus should be on fostering a culture of constructive engagement rather than imposing rigid frameworks.
The "Time-Consciousness" of the East and the "Space-Consciousness" of the West: Jacks suggests that Eastern philosophies often embody a "time-consciousness," emphasizing process, evolution, and inner growth, while Western thought has often been dominated by "space-consciousness," focusing on static structures, measurable results, and external achievements. He advocates for integrating the strengths of both perspectives.
The Power of "Constructive Action" over Mere Criticism: The book consistently advocates for a proactive and "constructive" approach to societal improvement. Instead of solely focusing on identifying and condemning negative aspects, the emphasis is on identifying and strengthening positive forces and capabilities within individuals and society.

Structure and Content:

The book is structured thematically, with each chapter delving into a specific aspect of constructive citizenship and the art of living together. Topics covered include:

Introduction: Setting the stage for a new way of thinking about citizenship beyond mere programs or ideologies.
Time-Consciousness in Social Matters: The philosophical basis for understanding societal dynamics through the lens of process and evolution.
Social Diagnosis: Analyzing the underlying causes of social malaise.
The Tripartite Aim of Citizenship: Defining the ethical, scientific, and practical dimensions of constructive citizenship.
Social Heroism: The spirit of courage and resilience required for societal progress.
The True Meaning of Words: Examining the semantic nuances and potential misinterpretations of key terms.
Skill: The cultivation of craftsmanship and its role in individual and societal fulfillment.
The Greatest Happiness of the Greatest Number: Critiquing utilitarian approaches and suggesting a deeper understanding of well-being.
Dislike of the Unnecessary: The importance of discerning what is truly needed.
The Use of Leisure: Finding purpose and meaning in one's free time.
The Industrial Form of Morality: Ethical considerations within the context of work.
Trusteeship: The fundamental principle of responsibility and confidence in social relations.
Rights and Duties: The interconnectedness of individual entitlements and obligations.
The Administration of Industry: Ethical governance in economic activities.
The Development of Character: The cultivation of virtues and moral strength.
The Spiritual and the Material: Harmonizing the inner and outer aspects of human existence.
Cooperation: The nature and challenges of genuine collective action.
Social Tension: Understanding and managing societal friction.

Translation and Context:

Gopaldas Jivabhai Patel's translation is noted for its thoughtfulness, aiming to convey the core message of Jacks' work while adapting it for a Gujarati readership. The translator grappled with the challenge of preserving the author's depth while ensuring clarity for readers without extensive Western literary background, sometimes judiciously omitting or adapting tangential points. The publication by Gujarat Vidyapith, an institution with a strong emphasis on Gandhian ideals and national reconstruction, places the book within a context of promoting holistic development and responsible citizenship.

In essence, "Sarvodayni Jivankala" offers a timeless perspective on building a better society by focusing on the cultivation of virtuous, skilled, and responsible individuals who understand their role as trustees and active participants in the collective journey of life.