Abraham Lincoln and the Paradox of Democracy:Can You Fool All the People All the Time?

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was a man of profound wisdom and insight. He is widely remembered for his eloquent speeches and his leadership during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history—the Civil War. His quote, “You can fool all people some of the time and some people all the time. But you can never fool all people all the time,” holds significant relevance in the context of democracy, both in theory and practice.

Democracy in Theory

In theory, democracy is a system that places ultimate power in the hands of the people. It upholds the idea that every individual’s voice counts, and collective decisions are made through free and fair elections. Lincoln’s words allude to the checks and balances inherent in this system. Even in a democracy, where the majority rules, there are limitations to how much deception can be perpetuated. A populace may be fooled to some extent, but not indefinitely.

However, the quote is not complete without the often-neglected, contrasting perspective that arises from the modern, cynical view of democracy.

Democracy in Fact

In practice, democracy can sometimes appear more complex and paradoxical than its idealized theory. The addition to Lincoln’s quote, which suggests that you can fool all the people all the time if the majority of them are idiots, reflects a somewhat pessimistic perspective. It implies that in a system where the masses determine outcomes, the potential for manipulation and exploitation exists, especially if a significant portion of the population lacks critical thinking skills or is easily swayed by demagoguery.

Moreover, the quote suggests that while theoretically, it’s challenging to fool everyone all the time, in reality, the dynamics are not so straightforward. The fact is that you can fool all the people all the time if a minority of individuals with ulterior motives are organized and manipulative, while the majority of intellectuals are fragmented and disengaged from the political process.

The Paradox of Democracy

The paradox of democracy lies in its inherent vulnerabilities. It is a system that, at its core, relies on the wisdom and informed decision-making of the majority. However, this does not always guarantee the best outcomes. Lincoln’s statement, both in theory and practice, emphasizes the precarious balance of power, knowledge, and leadership in a democratic society.

In theory, democracy holds the promise of enlightened decision-making by the people. It encourages citizens to engage, deliberate, and hold their leaders accountable. In such a system, the truth is expected to prevail over deception in the long run.

In practice, the potential for manipulation and deception emerges when the majority of people become disengaged, apathetic, or are easily swayed by misinformation. In such situations, a minority with ulterior motives can exert disproportionate influence, as they are organized and focused on achieving their objectives.

In conclusion, Abraham Lincoln’s quote is a powerful reminder of the complexities inherent in democracy. It serves as a warning that while theoretically, democracy aims to protect the people from deception and manipulation, in practice, it can falter when certain conditions are met. The true strength of democracy lies in an informed and engaged citizenry that values critical thinking and is active in the political process.

To safeguard the integrity of democratic systems, it is crucial for the majority of the population to remain vigilant, educated, and actively participate in the decision-making process. This collective responsibility, coupled with strong institutions and ethical leadership, can help ensure that democracy, in both theory and practice, continues to be a force for good, rather than a tool for manipulation by a few. Abraham Lincoln’s words remain a timeless reminder of the enduring need for a vigilant and informed citizenry in any democratic society.

Mahatma Gandhi’s Philosophy of Inclusivity and Its Discontent Among Sectarian Mindsets

Mahatma Gandhi, the iconic leader of India’s struggle for independence, is celebrated globally for his philosophy of inclusivity and nonviolence. Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to principles such as religious harmony, social justice, and unity has left an indelible mark on the world. However, it is important to acknowledge that Gandhi’s philosophy of inclusivity has not been embraced by some minor sections. Sectarian mindsets, which prioritize narrow interests and divisive ideologies, have often found Gandhi’s approach deeply unsettling. Let’s explore Gandhi’s philosophy of inclusivity and the reasons why individuals with sectarian mindsets may harbor animosity toward him.

1. Introduction

Mahatma Gandhi’s life and teachings are synonymous with the principles of inclusivity, non-violence, and tolerance. Throughout his public life, Gandhi strived to unite a diverse and complex society, advocating for harmony among different religious, social, and cultural groups. His philosophy of inclusivity, while revered by many, has faced criticism and resistance from individuals and organisations with sectarian mindsets, who view it as a threat to their narrow agendas.

2. Gandhi’s Philosophy of Inclusivity

Gandhi’s philosophy of inclusivity was deeply rooted in his belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. He recognized the diversity of Indian society and aimed to create a nation where every person, regardless of their background, felt valued and included. Key aspects of Gandhi’s philosophy of inclusivity include:

a. Religious Pluralism: Gandhi believed that all religions were equally valid paths to truth, and he actively promoted interfaith harmony. His message of religious tolerance sought to transcend religious divides and foster a sense of unity among people of different faiths.

b. Social Equality: Gandhi was a vocal advocate for the eradication of caste-based discrimination and untouchability. He worked tirelessly to uplift the marginalized and ensure that everyone had equal access to opportunities and resources.

c. Nonviolence and Peace: Central to Gandhi’s philosophy was the principle of nonviolence (Ahimsa). He believed that nonviolent resistance was a powerful tool for achieving social and political change without causing harm to others.

d. Decentralized Governance: Gandhi’s vision for India included decentralized governance structures that empowered local communities to make decisions about their own development. This approach aimed to ensure that every voice was heard and valued.

3. Sectarian Mindsets and Their Discontent

Individuals and social outfits with sectarian mindsets often oppose Gandhi’s philosophy of inclusivity for several questionable reasons:

a. Threat to Dominance: Sectarian ideologies thrive on division and the dominance of one group over others. Gandhi’s calls for unity, social justice, and equal rights challenge the hegemony of sectarian groups, causing resentment.

b. Fear of Change: Sectarian mindsets are resistant to change and seek to maintain the status quo, even if it perpetuates inequality or injustice. Gandhi’s inclusive vision calls for transformation and a departure from entrenched power structures.

c. Loss of Influence: Gandhi’s emphasis on decentralized governance and grassroots empowerment diminishes the centralized control that sectarian mindsets and their leaders may enjoy. This threatens their influence and authority.

d. Challenging Prejudices: Gandhi’s fight against social prejudices, including caste discrimination and religious intolerance, exposes the irrationality and bigotry that underpin sectarian ideologies, leading to discomfort among those who hold such inhuman traits.

In a nutshell, Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of inclusivity remains a guiding light for advocates of peace, justice, and social harmony. However, it is crucial to recognize that individuals with sectarian mindsets often harbor animosity toward him due to the threat posed by his inclusive ideals to their divisive agendas. Gandhi’s enduring legacy reminds us of the importance of embracing inclusivity, even in the face of opposition, to create a more just and compassionate world.

Selling Your Soul: The Perils of Trading with the Devil, a Lesson for Democracy

Introduction

The concept of selling one’s soul to the devil has intrigued and frightened humanity for centuries, often serving as a cautionary tale against compromising one’s values for personal gain. This metaphorical idea has transcended literature and folklore, finding its place in contemporary discussions about politics, ethics, and governance. When considering the intersection of this notion with democracy, a thought-provoking analogy emerges: the notion that the purchaser, akin to the devil in the folklore, may not always be what it seems. Let’s delve into the intriguing correlation between selling one’s soul and democratic compromise, shedding light on the potential dangers when ideals are sacrificed in the pursuit of power.

The Temptation of Selling One’s Soul

The idea of selling one’s soul is symbolic of making a Faustian bargain, exchanging long-held principles and beliefs for short-term gains. This metaphor transcends cultural and historical boundaries, appearing in various forms in literature, art, and religious texts. The archetype of the devil represents the allure of power and material success, often tempting individuals with promises of wealth, fame, or influence. The consequences of such a pact, however, tend to be dire, leaving the individual spiritually impoverished and morally compromised.

In a broader context, the temptation to compromise one’s values is not confined to personal stories but extends to societal and political realms. Democracy, a system that is built upon the principles of representation, accountability, and the will of the people, can also fall prey to compromise when its actors prioritize power over principles.

The Devil in Democracy

Democracy, despite its ideals, is not immune to the seductive allure of compromise. Elected officials, in the quest for power and influence, may sometimes abandon their original convictions and the needs of their constituents. The “purchaser” in this context could be seen as special interest groups, lobbyists, foreign powers, or even sectarian ideologies seeking to influence the democratic process. The promise of financial support, endorsements, or campaign assistance may lead politicians to make choices that deviate from the greater good.

Moreover, the devilish aspect of democracy becomes even more evident when examining the rise of populism and demagoguery. Leaders who exploit fear, prejudice, and misinformation to gain power may offer simple solutions to complex problems, capitalizing or diverting attention to inconsequential emotional tools, on the frustrations of the electorate. This compromises the very essence of democracy, as it substitutes informed decision-making with emotional manipulation.

The Erosion of Democratic Values

Just as the individual who sells his soul experiences a gradual erosion of his identity and moral compass, democracy too can suffer a degradation of its core values. When elected representatives prioritize their personal ambitions or working for a cause that could be detrimental to the masses, over the well-being of the populace, public trust in democratic institutions diminishes. Citizens become disillusioned, feeling disconnected from a system that appears to serve the interests of the powerful rather than the common good.

An erosion of democratic values can lead to a concentration of power in the hands of a few, undermining the checks and balances that are essential to maintaining a healthy democracy. When leaders are willing to compromise ethics for personal or political gain, corruption can become rampant, weakening the very foundation of democratic governance.

The Road to Redemption

Just as the devilish contract can lead to regret and a yearning for redemption in folklore, democracies too have the potential to self-correct. Acknowledging the dangers of compromising principles for power is the first step towards preventing the erosion of democratic values. Citizens, informed and engaged, can demand accountability from their elected representatives, thereby ensuring that the pursuit of power does not come at the expense of ethical governance and secured future.

Transparency and accountability mechanisms are crucial tools in preventing the devilish influence of compromise from taking root. Strengthening campaign finance regulations, promoting independent media, and encouraging civic education are strategies that can help citizens make informed choices and hold their representatives accountable.

In conclusion, the metaphorical notion of selling one’s soul to the devil offers a cautionary tale that resonates across cultures and time periods. When juxtaposed with democracy, this metaphor provides insight into the dangers of compromising principles for power. Just as the devil in folklore tempts with promises of success and fulfillment, the allure of power and influence can lead individuals and even entire democratic systems astray.

However, it is also emphasised that the redeeming power of awareness and action has its own significance. By recognizing the perils of compromise and prioritizing ethical governance, citizens can guide their democracies away from the path of erosion and towards a more principled and accountable future. Ultimately, the lesson to be learned is that while the temptation to sell one’s soul may persist, it is within our collective power to resist the allure of compromise and protect the integrity of democratic ideals.

Post-Truth and Artificial Intelligence: Navigating the Challenges of an Evolving Information Landscape.

The advent of the digital age has brought about significant advancements in technology, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Concurrently, society has witnessed the emergence of the post-truth era, characterized by the manipulation of information and the disregard for objective facts. The Oxford dictionary had selected the word ‘Post-truth’ as the word of the year in 2016 and, since then, the world has become increasingly sensitized by the threats posed by dominance of post-truth in the society. The intersection of post-truth and artificial intelligence poses unique challenges, as AI technologies have the potential to both exacerbate and mitigate the spread of misinformation. Let’s explore the complex relationship between post-truth and AI, examining the challenges it presents and the opportunities for responsible AI deployment in combating the erosion of truth.

The Threat of Amplified Disinformation

Artificial intelligence, with its capacity for automated data analysis, has the power to amplify the spread of disinformation in the post-truth era. AI algorithms can be trained to identify patterns and trends in vast amounts of data, making them vulnerable to manipulation by malicious actors seeking to exploit the vulnerabilities of the information ecosystem. With the ability to generate and disseminate content at an unprecedented scale, AI-powered systems can create sophisticated deepfake videos, generate convincing misinformation, and deploy social bots to artificially inflate the visibility of false narratives. This amplification of disinformation poses a grave threat to public discourse, social cohesion, and democratic processes.

Algorithmic Bias and Truth Perception

Another significant challenge lies in the potential for algorithmic bias within AI systems, which can inadvertently contribute to the perpetuation of post-truth narratives. AI algorithms learn from existing data, and if that data is biased or tainted with misinformation, it can perpetuate and amplify such biases. This can lead to a distortion of truth perception, as AI systems reinforce pre-existing beliefs and perspectives, further entrenching individuals in their ideological echo chambers. The reinforcement of confirmation bias can hinder the open-mindedness and critical thinking necessary to challenge false information and engage in constructive dialogue.

Opportunities for Responsible AI Deployment

While AI poses challenges in the post-truth era, it also offers opportunities for combating the erosion of truth when deployed responsibly. AI-powered fact-checking systems, for instance, can aid in the identification and debunking of false information. By leveraging natural language processing and machine learning techniques, these systems can analyze large volumes of text and compare them against trusted sources to determine the veracity of claims. Such tools can empower individuals to make informed judgments, enhancing media literacy and promoting a more discerning consumption of information.

Furthermore, AI can assist in detecting patterns of disinformation and identifying fake accounts and bot networks on social media platforms. By analyzing user behavior and content interactions, AI algorithms can identify suspicious activities indicative of automated propaganda campaigns or coordinated disinformation efforts. This enables platforms to take appropriate action to mitigate the influence of malicious actors and maintain the integrity of public discourse.

Promoting Ethical AI and Digital Literacy

To harness the potential of AI in combating the challenges of post-truth, it is crucial to prioritize ethical AI development and digital literacy initiatives. Ethical guidelines and regulations must be established to govern AI usage and address the risks associated with the spread of disinformation. Transparency and accountability in AI algorithms should be prioritized, ensuring that decision-making processes are explainable, auditable, and free from bias.

Simultaneously, comprehensive digital literacy programs must be implemented to equip individuals with the necessary skills to navigate the evolving information landscape. Education should focus on critical thinking, media literacy, and information verification, enabling individuals to evaluate the credibility and reliability of sources in an AI-driven era. By fostering a society that is adept at discerning truth from falsehoods, we can fortify ourselves against the threats posed by post-truth narratives.

In conclusion, let’s accept the fact that the convergence of post-truth and artificial intelligence poses complex challenges to society’s pursuit of truth and the integrity of public discourse. While AI has the potential to amplify disinformation and perpetuate biases, it also offers opportunities for combating the erosion of truth through responsible deployment. By prioritizing ethical AI development, promoting transparency and accountability, and enhancing digital literacy, we can navigate the evolving information landscape more effectively. To ensure the preservation of truth in the face of post-truth, we must harness the power of AI as a force for veracity, empowering individuals and strengthening the foundations of a well-informed society.

Extreme Politics

In recent years, the extreme politics has been a cause for concern across the world. With its emphasis on nationalism, anti-immigration, and authoritarianism, this phenomenon has gained traction in many countries, from the United States to Hungary and Brazil. Let’s try to understand this trend, its consequences, and possible solutions.

Causes of the Trend

There are several factors that have contributed to the rise of extreme politics. One is economic inequality, which has left many people feeling left behind and frustrated with the political establishment. Another is the fear of immigration, which is often portrayed as a threat to national identity and security. This fear has been exacerbated by the refugee crisis and the rise of Islamist terrorism.

In addition, many extreme movements have been able to capitalise on the power of social media, which has allowed them to spread their message and recruit followers more easily than ever before. This has been particularly true of populist movements, which often appeal to people’s emotions rather than their reason.

Finally, there is evidence that some political leaders have deliberately stoked nationalist and xenophobic sentiments in order to gain power. This has been seen in the rhetoric of leaders like Donald Trump, Viktor Orbán, and Jair Bolsonaro, who have portrayed themselves as strongmen who can protect their countries from perceived threats.

Consequences of the Trend

The rise of extreme politics has several negative consequences for society. One is that it can lead to increased social division and conflict, as different groups are pitted against each other based on their national identity or ethnicity. This can lead to the scapegoating of minorities and the marginalisation of vulnerable populations.

Another consequence is that it can erode democratic norms and institutions. Many extreme shift movements are authoritarian in nature, and they often seek to undermine the free press, the judiciary, and other democratic institutions that are essential for a healthy democracy. This can lead to a situation where the rule of law is weakened and the rights of citizens are threatened.

Finally, the rise of extreme politics can have negative consequences for international relations. Nationalistic and isolationist policies can lead to increased tension and conflict between countries, as well as impeding cooperation on issues such as climate change and global poverty.

Possible Solutions

There are several possible solutions to the rise of extreme politics. One is to address the underlying economic and social factors that have contributed to this trend. This could involve policies that reduce inequality and promote greater social inclusion, as well as addressing the root causes of immigration and terrorism.

Another solution is to promote greater media literacy and critical thinking skills, which can help people to recognise and resist propaganda and misinformation. This could be done through education and public awareness campaigns.

Finally, it may be necessary to address the role of political leaders in fuelling nationalist and xenophobic sentiment. This could involve holding leaders accountable for their actions and words, as well as promoting greater transparency and accountability in the political process.

The rise of extreme politics is a worrying trend that has negative consequences for society. However, there are several possible solutions to this problem, including addressing the underlying economic and social factors, promoting greater media literacy and critical thinking skills, and holding political leaders accountable for their actions. By working together to address this issue, we can create a more inclusive, democratic, and peaceful world.

जागतिक स्तरावर राजकारणाची भांडवलशाही शक्तींपासून मुक्तता.

गेल्या काही दशकांमध्ये, जगभरातील राजकारणी अधिकाधिक भांडवलशाही शक्तींच्या अधीन झाले आहेत. अनेक राजकीय नेते आणि पक्षांनी स्वेच्छेने सामान्य लोकांचे हित अथवा त्यांचा कल्याण याऐवजी कॉर्पोरेशन आणि धनाढ्य व्यक्तींच्या हितसंबंधांशी जुळवून घेतले आहे. भांडवलशाही वर्चस्वामुळे राजकीय क्षेत्राचे स्वातंत्र्य नष्ट झाले असून लोकशाही कमकुवत झाली आहे.

राजकीय क्षेत्राच्या ऱ्हासाचे व अधीनतेचे मुख्य कारण कॉर्पोरेशन आणि धनाढ्य व्यक्तींनी त्यांच्या अफाट आर्थिक सामर्थ्याद्वारे जगावर जे अधिराज्य निर्माण केले ते होय. राजकीय मोहिमांना निधी देऊन, राजकारण्यांशी लॉबिंग करून आणि स्वतःचे राजकीय पक्ष स्थापन करून राजकारण्यांवर प्रभुत्व निर्माण करण्यासाठी ते त्यांच्या अफाट संसाधनांचा वापर करतात. याचा परिणाम सामान्य जनतेच्या गरजा आणि इच्छांपेक्षा या श्रीमंत देणगीदारांच्या हितसंबंधांना अनुकूल अशा धोरणांमध्ये होतो.

भांडवलशाही शक्तींच्या तावडीतून राजकीय क्षेत्राचे स्वातंत्र्य पुनर्संचयित करण्यासाठी, अनेक पावले उचलली पाहिजेत. राजकारणातील पैशाचा प्रभाव मर्यादित करण्यासाठी प्रखर नियम/कायदे तयार करून त्यांची अंमलबजावणी स्थापना करणे ही याबाबत पहिले आणि सर्वात महत्त्वाचे पाऊल असेल. यामध्ये राजकीय मोहिमांवर खर्च करता येणारी रक्कम आणि कॉर्पोरेशन आणि श्रीमंत व्यक्तींकडून स्वीकारल्या जाणाऱ्या देणग्यांची मर्यादा यावर प्राथम्यक्रमाने आणि अत्यंत तातडीने लक्ष केंद्रित केले पाहिजे. याव्यतिरिक्त, राजकारण्यांनी निधीचे सर्व स्त्रोत उघड करणे आवश्यक आहे, जेणेकरुन जनतेला हितसंबंधांच्या कोणत्याही संभाव्य संघर्षांची जाणीव होऊ शकेल.

आणखी एक महत्त्वाचा टप्पा म्हणजे राजकीय प्रक्रियेत पारदर्शकता वाढवणे. यामध्ये सर्व राजकीय निर्णय आणि वाटाघाटी सार्वजनिक करणे, तसेच राजकारणी आणि लॉबीस्ट यांच्यातील सर्व बैठका सार्वजनिक छाननीसाठी उपलब्ध करून दिल्या जातील याची खात्री करणे समाविष्ट आहे. हे बॅकरूम डील रोखण्यात मदत करेल आणि हे सुनिश्चित करेल की राजकारणी त्यांच्या श्रीमंत देणगीदारांऐवजी ते प्रतिनिधित्व करत असलेल्या लोकांसाठी जबाबदार आहेत.

शेवटी राजकीय प्रक्रियेत सर्वसामान्यांचा आवाज बळकट करणे आवश्यक आहे. मतदारांचा सहभाग वाढवून आणि लोकांना राजकीय उमेदवार आणि समस्यांबद्दल माहिती मिळवणे सोपे करून हे केले जाऊ शकते. याव्यतिरिक्त, तळागाळातील संस्थांच्या विकासास प्रोत्साहन देणे महत्वाचे आहे जे सामान्य लोकांच्या गरजा आणि इच्छांसाठी समर्थन करू शकतात.

शेवटी, राजकीय क्षेत्र भांडवलशाही शक्तींच्या अधीन होणे हे लोकशाही आणि लोकांच्या कल्याणासाठी गंभीर धोका आहे. राजकीय क्षेत्राचे स्वातंत्र्य पुनर्संचयित करण्यासाठी, मजबूत नियम स्थापित करणे, पारदर्शकता वाढवणे आणि सामान्य लोकांचा आवाज मजबूत करणे आवश्यक आहे. एक महत्वाचे, कि आपले लोकप्रतिनिधी निवडतांना ते सर्व नागरिकांच्या हितासाठी खरोखर काम करणारे आहेत कि केवळ सत्तास्थापनेच्या लालसेपोटी भांडवलदारांच्या कह्यात जाणारे आहेत याची जनजागरण मोहीम जागतिक पातळीवर तीव्र करून लोकशाही सुदृढ करण्यासाठी DiEM25 सारख्या मोहिमा राबविणे आवश्यक राहील.

Restoring the Independence of Politics: Breaking Free from Capitalistic Forces.

Over the past few decades, politicians around the world have increasingly become subservient to capitalistic forces. Many political leaders and parties have willingly aligned themselves with the interests of corporations and wealthy individuals, often at the expense of the common people. This trend has resulted in a loss of independence of the political arena and has weakened democracy.

One of the main reasons for this subjugation is the immense financial power wielded by corporations and wealthy individuals. They use their vast resources to influence political outcomes by funding political campaigns, lobbying politicians, and even establishing their own political parties. This often results in policies that favor the interests of these wealthy donors over the needs and desires of the general public.

To restore the independence of the political arena from the clutches of capitalistic forces, several steps must be taken. The first and most important step is to establish strong regulations to limit the influence of money in politics. This includes limiting the amount of money that can be spent on political campaigns and the amount of donations that can be accepted from corporations and wealthy individuals. Additionally, politicians should be required to disclose all sources of funding, so that the public can be aware of any potential conflicts of interest.

Another important step is to increase transparency in the political process. This includes making all political decisions and negotiations public, as well as ensuring that all meetings between politicians and lobbyists are made available for public scrutiny. This will help to prevent backroom deals and ensure that politicians are accountable to the people they represent, rather than to their wealthy donors.

Finally, it is essential to strengthen the voice of the common people in the political process. This can be done by increasing voter participation and making it easier for people to access information about political candidates and issues. Additionally, it is important to promote the development of grassroots organizations that can advocate for the needs and desires of the common people.

In conclusion, the subjugation of the political arena to capitalistic forces is a serious threat to democracy and the well-being of the people. To restore independence to the political arena, it is necessary to establish strong regulations, increase transparency, and strengthen the voice of the common people on the lines of DiEM25 movement in Europe. Only then can we ensure that our politicians are truly working for the benefit of all citizens, rather than just a select few.

The future-enabled generations.

The importance of education in shaping the future of any nation cannot be overstated. With India’s growing population and rapidly advancing technology, it is imperative that we take steps to ensure that our schools and colleges are preparing our youth for the challenges and opportunities of the future. To achieve this, we must re-evaluate our educational system and update our syllabus to be more forward-thinking and innovative.

The current education system in India is based on a traditional approach that focuses on rote learning and memorization of facts. While this may have worked in the past, it is no longer adequate to prepare students for the challenges of the modern world. To compete in the global economy, our students must have a solid foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The future of work will be dominated by automation and artificial intelligence, and our education system must adapt to prepare our students for this reality. We must prioritize teaching skills that are in high demand, such as coding, data analysis, and digital literacy. Our syllabus must also include courses on entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation, so that our students can become leaders and innovators in their respective fields.

In addition to STEM education, we must also emphasize the importance of social sciences and humanities. Our students must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to understand the complex social, political, and economic issues facing our world today. Courses in history, political science, economics, and sociology will help students develop a broader perspective and become informed and engaged citizens.

To achieve this ambitious goal of creating a futuristic syllabus, we must prioritize investments in teacher training and infrastructure. Our teachers must be equipped with the latest pedagogical techniques and have access to technology and resources that will enhance their teaching. Our schools and colleges must be equipped with modern facilities and resources to create a stimulating learning environment.

In conclusion, the need for a futuristic school and college syllabus in India is urgent and cannot be overstated. Our education system must adapt to the changing needs of the modern world, and we must invest in our teachers and infrastructure to make this a reality. Let us work together to create an education system that will prepare our students for success in the 21st century and beyond.

Lord Hewart: Aphorism

In 1924, Lord Hewart, Chief Justice of England, famously stated that “Justice should not only be done, but also seen to be done.” This phrase has since become one of the fundamental principles of justice systems around the world, emphasizing the importance of transparency and fairness in legal proceedings. However, as we approach the 99th anniversary of Lord Hewart’s quote, it is worth considering whether this principle is still sufficient in our modern era.

In 2023, my take on this quote is that “Justice should not only be seen to be done, but should actually be done”.While transparency and fairness are crucial components of any justice system, they are not enough on their own. Justice must also be swift, accessible, effective and more importantly uninfluenced by any external factors in order to truly serve the needs of society.

One of the biggest challenges facing justice systems today is the issue of accessibility. Many people are unable to access legal services due to financial, social, or cultural barriers. This creates a significant gap in the ability of justice systems to serve all members of society equally. To address this issue, many countries are exploring new approaches to legal aid, such as offering free or low-cost legal services to those who need them.

Another major challenge facing justice systems is the issue of speed. Legal proceedings can often drag on for years or even decades, causing immense frustration and stress for those involved. This is particularly true for criminal cases, where delays can result in prolonged detention or even wrongful convictions. To address this issue, many countries are exploring new approaches to case management, such as using technology to streamline the legal process and reduce delays.

One more emerging issue is that there is growing concerns about the independence of the judiciary in many countries across the world. There have also been allegations that the judiciary has been used as a tool by the governments to suppress dissent and opposition voices.

The justice systems, therefore, must also be effective in order to truly serve the needs of society. This means that they must be able to deliver just outcomes in a timely and consistent manner. It also means that they must be able to adapt to changing social, economic, and technological conditions in order to remain relevant and effective over time.

In conclusion, the principle that “Justice should not only be seen to be done, but should actually be done” represents an evolution of Lord Hewart’s original quote, reflecting the changing needs andexpectations of society over the past 99 years. While transparency and fairness remain important components of any justice system, they must be accompanied by accessibility, speed, effectiveness and remain

uninfluenced by any external pressures in order to truly serve the needs of all members of society. As we continue to evolve our justice systems to meet these challenges, we can ensure that justice is not just a concept, but a reality of all. Justice is of paramount importance for any society as otherwise, if injustice delivered in the garb of justice paves way for necrosis of democracy.

Mahesh Zagade, IASx

I act because I must….

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