Swami Vivekananda's views on education and its overall development (Notes in English)

 

Swami Vivekananda's views on education and its overall development

Swami Vivekananda believed that the meaning of education is not only to acquire knowledge but to develop a complete personality. He emphasized that education should be holistic, which means it should cover the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of the individual.

According to Swami Vivekananda, education should focus on the following:

1. Character building - He believed that the ultimate goal of education is character building. Swami Vivekananda emphasized the importance of instilling values like discipline, integrity and self-control in the students.

2. Practical Knowledge: Swami Vivekananda emphasized the importance of practical knowledge over theoretical knowledge. He believed that education should prepare individuals to face the challenges of life and enable them to apply what they have learned.

3. Universal Education: Swami Vivekananda believed that education should be universal and accessible to all, irrespective of their gender, caste or religion.

4. Self-realization: Swami Vivekananda believed that education should enable individuals to realize their true potential and help them discover their inner self.

5. Service to the Society: Swami Vivekananda believed that education should teach individuals to serve the society selflessly. He believed that the purpose of education is not only personal development but also the betterment of the society.

In short, Swami Vivekananda's views on education emphasized the importance of all-round development, practical knowledge, universal education, self-realization and service to society. These principles are relevant even today and can guide us in building an education system that focuses on the development of the whole individual and the betterment of society.