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Ambedkar’s Thought: Beyond Pragmatism and Dewey’s Influence

Why in the news?

A recent debate questions Scott R. Stroud’s interpretation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s philosophy as predominantly Deweyan pragmatism. Scholars argue that Ambedkar’s vision extended beyond pragmatism, incorporating social democracy, Buddhism, and caste annihilation as core principles.

Ambedkar’s Growing Global Recognition:

• B.R. Ambedkar‘s intellectual contributions are gaining worldwide attention, with multiple biographies and academic works published recently.
• Despite this, many scholars hesitate to engage with Ambedkar’s ideas in mainstream academic discourse.
• Scott R. Stroud’s book, The Evolution of Pragmatism in India, explores Ambedkar’s connection to John Dewey’s pragmatist philosophy.
• His recent article in Economic and Political Weekly defends the argument that Dewey significantly influenced Ambedkar’s political thought.

The Limits of Pragmatism in Understanding Ambedkar

• Stroud attempts to place Ambedkar within the global pragmatist tradition, emphasizing Dewey’s influence.
• However, scholars argue that reducing Ambedkar’s thought to pragmatism ignores his broader intellectual engagements.
• Ambedkar was influenced by multiple thinkers, including Phule, Kabir, and Fabian socialism, making a single-lens interpretation inadequate.
• While Dewey’s ideas on democracy and habit formation influenced Ambedkar, caste oppression shaped his philosophy more profoundly.

Ambedkar’s Vision Beyond Pragmatism:

• Stroud’s view that Ambedkar’s conversion to Buddhism was a pragmatic move is criticized as reductive.
• Ambedkar’s lifelong engagement with Buddhism was deeply rooted in personal belief and social reform, not just pragmatism.
• His 22 vows renouncing Hinduism were a revolutionary act aimed at annihilating caste, beyond the scope of Deweyan pragmatism.
• Ambedkar recognized the limitations of modern democracy and sought deeper transformation through social and spiritual means.