Saturday, 14 December 2024

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Philosophical Parallels Across Cultures

 Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Philosophical Parallels Across Cultures

Dr. Surendra Pathak,

School of Philosophy and Theological Studies, LJ University,

 Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

Email: pathak06@gmail.com

Abstract

The concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—"The World Is One Family"—is rooted in ancient Indian texts and represents a profound vision of global unity, interconnectedness, and universal brotherhood. It advocates ethical values, compassion, and mutual respect, forming the foundation of harmonious coexistence. This philosophy aligns closely with the principles of sustainable living, social justice, and inclusive growth emerging from scriptures like the Maha Upanishad. Across the world, similar ideologies emphasise unity, ethical living, and respect for diversity.

This article explores the philosophical parallels between Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and diverse cultural, religious, and philosophical traditions, such as Ubuntu in Africa, Hongik Ingan in Korea, and Tikkun Olam in Judaism. These frameworks reflect a shared aspiration for global harmony, peacebuilding, and environmental stewardship. By analysing these alignments, this article highlights the enduring relevance of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in addressing contemporary challenges, fostering intercultural dialogue, and advancing the vision of a sustainable and equitable world order.

Keywords: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, global unity, universal brotherhood, interconnectedness, compassion, Maha Upanishad, sustainable living, social justice, inclusive growth, ethical values, Ubuntu, Hongik Ingan, Tikkun Olam, diversity, harmony, peacebuilding, environmental stewardship, intercultural dialogue, equitable world order.


Introduction

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning "The World Is One Family," is a cornerstone of Indian philosophy that emphasises the interconnectedness and unity of all beings. Rooted in ancient texts such as the Maha Upanishad and the Hitopadesha, this principle transcends individual, familial, or national identities, advocating for collective global welfare. It highlights universal values such as compassion, inclusion, and ethical living, essential for addressing contemporary global challenges like social justice, sustainable development, and intercultural understanding (Maha Upanishad 6.71–75).

This ancient ethos inspires a global perspective that seeks to overcome barriers between individuals, communities, and nations, fostering coexistence and shared responsibility for the welfare of all. The moral consciousness embedded in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam resonates with comparable philosophies across cultures. For instance, Africa’s Ubuntu emphasises collective humanity, Korea’s Hongik Ingan advocates for actions that benefit humankind, Greece’s Henosis explores unity with the divine, and Judaism’s Tikkun Olam calls for repairing the world through social responsibility. These philosophies reflect humanity's shared aspiration for peace, solidarity, and harmony. The cross-cultural alignment of such ideals demonstrates the timeless relevance of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in fostering global unity and sustainable coexistence (Hitopadesha 1.3.2).

Philosophical Essence of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning "The World Is One Family," symbolises a worldview rooted in interconnectedness, compassion, and ethical responsibility. Originating from Indian texts like the Maha Upanishad and the Hitopadesha, it transcends personal, familial, and national boundaries, advocating for collective global welfare. The philosophy emphasises non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), and compassion (Karuna), promoting a harmonious coexistence where individual and societal welfare are intrinsically linked. This ancient Indian ethos serves as a moral compass for addressing contemporary challenges, offering a blueprint for unity in diversity and sustainable coexistence.

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Conceptual Parallels Across Cultures

The principles of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam resonate with several global philosophies that emphasise shared humanity, ethical conduct, and collective well-being. These shared frameworks underline the universal aspiration for unity and solidarity.

  1. Interconnectedness and Mutual Responsibility

Philosophies like Africa’s Ubuntu ("I am because we are") and Korea’s Hongik Ingan ("benefiting all humankind") emphasise human interdependence and the need for actions that benefit society. They reflect a communal approach to well-being, resonating with the Indian ideal of treating the world as one family.

  1. Unity Amid Diversity

Indonesia’s Pancasila and Tanzania’s Ujamaa highlight frameworks for coexistence in diverse societies, emphasising unity, shared prosperity, and social justice. These align with the inclusive ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which encourages unity without erasing individual or cultural identities.

  1. Ethical and Spiritual Dimensions

Greece’s Henosis (oneness with the divine), Judaism’s Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), and Japan’s Wabi-Sabi and Confucian ideals emphasise ethical living and spiritual harmony. These philosophies advocate for moral responsibility, unity with nature, and a focus on collective rather than individualistic gains.

  1. Compassion and Respect for Nature

The Hawaiian Aloha philosophy and Chinese Confucianism reflect the need for harmonious relationships within human communities and with nature. These align with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’s call for balance and mutual respect, which are essential for sustainable living.

Relevance in the Present Global Scenario

The principles embedded in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and its global parallels are increasingly significant today, marked by fragmentation, environmental degradation, and sociopolitical conflicts. The interconnected challenges of climate change, inequality, and cultural polarisation demand a unified and ethical global response.

  1. Addressing Global Challenges
    • Climate Change: The interconnectedness emphasised by Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Ubuntu highlights humanity's collective responsibility to safeguard the environment. Philosophies advocating harmony with nature, like Aloha and Henosis, can inspire sustainable practices and global cooperation in addressing ecological crises.
    • Social Inequality: Concepts like Ujamaa and Pancasila offer frameworks for reducing socioeconomic disparities by promoting shared prosperity and social justice.
    • Cultural Conflicts: Intercultural philosophies such as Hongik Ingan and Confucian Harmony foster mutual understanding and respect, which are essential for peacebuilding and resolving cultural divisions.
  2. Fostering Global Solidarity
  3. As globalisation connects nations and creates disparities, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam calls for an ethical realignment that prioritises collective well-being over narrow interests. Philosophies like Tikkun Olam and Ubuntu remind humanity of the need for compassionate action and a shared sense of responsibility.
  4. Promoting Intercultural Dialogue
  5. These philosophies' diverse yet aligned ideals demonstrate the universality of values like unity, compassion, and justice. In a polarised world, intercultural dialogue inspired by these frameworks can reduce tensions and promote peace.
  6. Inspiring Governance and Policy
  7. Philosophical insights such as Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Pancasila can shape policies prioritising equity, diversity, and sustainability. Educational systems can integrate these values to nurture future generations as global citizens.

The Need for Philosophical Integration

The convergence of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam with these global philosophies underscores a shared moral and ethical foundation that humanity can draw upon to address contemporary issues. In an era of uncertainty and division, these timeless principles provide a roadmap for creating an inclusive, harmonious, and sustainable global community. The world can move closer to achieving universal peace, justice, and equitable development by embracing shared values of interconnectedness, ethical responsibility, and unity amid diversity.

Philosophical Parallels Across Cultures

1. Korea: Hongik Ingan – "Benefit All Humankind"

The concept of Hongik Ingan translates to "benefiting all humankind," rooted in ancient Korean thought. It advocates for living in a way that benefits humanity, echoing Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's values.

  • Relevance Today: In an increasingly globalised world, where collective challenges like pandemics and climate change transcend national borders, Hongik Ingan promotes a sense of shared responsibility and global cooperation for the greater good.

2. Africa: Ubuntu – "I Am Because We Are"

Ubuntu, an African philosophy that asserts "I am because we are," reflects the interconnectedness of humanity and emphasises communal well-being.

  • Relevance Today: In a time of rising individualism and political fragmentation, Ubuntu advocates for collective action, mutual respect, and solidarity. Its focus on community and shared humanity provides a moral foundation for addressing social justice issues and fostering peace, particularly in post-conflict societies like South Africa.

3. Indonesia: Pancasila – The Five Principles

Pancasila, Indonesia’s foundational philosophy, outlines five principles that promote unity, social justice, and respect for diversity. These principles align with the idea of global familyhood found in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

  • Relevance Today: As the world becomes increasingly multicultural and diverse, Pancasila serves as a model for creating harmonious societies where individuals from different backgrounds can coexist with respect for one another’s differences.

4. Japan: Wabi-Sabi – Embracing Imperfection

Wabi-Sabi celebrates the beauty of simplicity, imperfection, and transience, emphasising a deep harmony with the natural world.

  • Relevance Today: In an era of rapid technological change and societal pressure for perfection, Wabi-Sabi encourages acceptance of imperfection, the appreciation of life’s transient nature, and a return to simplicity—values that can help counter the stresses of modern living and promote mental well-being.

5. Japan & China: Confucianism – Social Harmony and Moral Conduct

Confucianism, prevalent in both Japan and China, emphasises social harmony, respect for relationships, and moral integrity. The Five Relationships, a key Confucian concept, guide personal behaviour and societal interactions.

  • Relevance Today: In a world that often struggles with political and social divisions, Confucianism offers a model for mutual respect, duty, and moral leadership, advocating for ethical behaviour and societal harmony in diverse contexts.

6. United States: Philosophy of Aloha – Love, Peace, and Mutual Respect

The Aloha philosophy from Hawaii embodies love, peace, and mutual respect, advocating for harmonious coexistence and balance between individuals, communities, and nature.

  • Relevance Today: Amid growing tensions and polarisation, the Aloha philosophy fosters a spirit of empathy, cooperation, and environmental stewardship. It encourages the nurturing of relationships and peaceful coexistence in a global context.

7. Sweden: Lagom – The Art of Balance

Lagom, a Swedish concept, means "just the right amount," emphasising balance and moderation in all aspects of life. It encourages contentment with enough rather than excess.

  • Relevance Today: As societies face issues of consumerism and environmental degradation, Lagom promotes sustainable living, moderation, and contentment, helping individuals and societies to find balance in a fast-paced, consumption-driven world.

8. Greece: Henosis – Unity with the Divine

The Greek concept of Henosis refers to the mystical union with the divine and the oneness of existence, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things.

  • Relevance Today: Henosis offers a spiritual perspective on unity, encouraging individuals and communities to recognise their inherent oneness with others and the universe, which can guide global cooperation and peacebuilding efforts.

9. Korea: Nunchi – The Subtle Art of Understanding Others

Nunchi, a uniquely Korean concept, refers to the subtle art of understanding others and adjusting one's behaviour accordingly. It encourages emotional intelligence and interpersonal harmony.

  • Relevance Today: As global interactions become more complex, Nunchi highlights the importance of empathy, emotional intelligence, and adaptability in fostering harmonious relationships and cross-cultural understanding.

10. Judaism: Tikkun Olam – "Repairing the World"

Tikkun Olam, meaning "repairing the world," emphasises social responsibility, ethical living, and working toward a just society.

  • Relevance Today: In a world facing inequality, environmental destruction, and political unrest, Tikkun Olam encourages individuals and communities to take action to heal the world through justice, service, and compassion.

11. Buddhism: Maitri/Mettā – Universal Loving Kindness

Maitri (in Sanskrit) or Mettā (in Pali), meaning loving-kindness, is a fundamental Buddhist concept that emphasises compassion and unconditional love for all beings.

  • Relevance Today: In a world often marked by division, conflict, and suffering, Maitri provides a moral and spiritual framework for fostering peace, empathy, and global solidarity, advocating for compassion in both personal and global contexts.

12. Tanzania: Ujamaa – "Familyhood" and Collective Welfare

Ujamaa, Swahili for "familyhood," was popularised by Julius Nyerere to promote collective living and shared prosperity. It aligns with the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam by emphasising community-oriented values and universal kinship.

  • Relevance Today: As the world grapples with social and economic inequalities, Ujamaa advocates for social justice and community self-reliance. It remains relevant in discussions about wealth distribution, social welfare, and the fight against poverty.

13. Lagom – The Art of Balance (Sweden)

Lagom, a Swedish concept, encourages moderation, balance, and sufficiency—essentially, "just the right amount." It promotes contentment without excess, encouraging a harmonious approach to life.

  • Relevance Today: In a world of overconsumption, Lagom advocates for sustainability, mindful living, and environmental stewardship. In today’s era of climate change and resource depletion, Lagom inspires individuals and communities to live more sustainably, embracing moderation rather than excess.

14. Maitri/Mettā – Universal Loving Kindness (Buddhism)

Maitri (in Sanskrit) or Mettā (in Pali) represents the practice of loving-kindness in Buddhism, emphasising unconditional love and compassion for all beings.

  • Relevance Today: In the contemporary context, Maitri calls for global compassion, especially amidst ongoing conflicts, inequalities, and environmental challenges. It encourages individuals to approach others with empathy, reducing hostility and fostering peace and social harmony across cultures.

15. Confucian Harmony (China)

Rooted in Chinese philosophy, Confucianism promotes the concept of harmony through respectful relationships and moral integrity, emphasising the Five Relationships as essential to social order.

  • Relevance Today: In a divided world, Confucianism offers valuable societal harmony and mutual respect teachings. It calls for cultivating ethical behaviour, duty, and respect, crucial for resolving political and social conflicts and building inclusive societies.

16. Henosis – Oneness in Greek Philosophy (Greece)

Henosis refers to mystical union with the divine and highlights the oneness of existence. It emphasises the idea that all beings are connected and share a common origin.

  • Relevance Today: Henosis encourages unity, transcending material and ideological divides. It provides a spiritual framework for addressing global issues such as religious conflict and social fragmentation by promoting a deeper understanding of interconnectedness and shared humanity.

17. Tikkun Olam – "Repairing the World" (Judaism)

The Jewish principle of Tikkun Olam, meaning "repairing the world," focuses on social responsibility, ethical behaviour, and improving the world through action and service.

  • Relevance Today: In today’s globalised world, where inequality, environmental degradation, and political instability abound, Tikkun Olam provides a moral imperative for individuals and communities to take action, contribute to social justice, and address global issues with compassion and responsibility.

18. Ujamaa – "Familyhood" and Collective Welfare (Tanzania)

Ujamaa, popularised by Julius Nyerere, embodies the concept of "familyhood," emphasising collective welfare, shared resources, and social justice. It promotes socialism and community self-reliance.

  • Relevance Today: As wealth inequality continues to rise globally, Ujamaa offers an alternative model focused on equality, communal living, and social justice. It remains relevant for fostering solidarity and addressing the systemic inequalities in developed and developing countries.

19. Nunchi – The Subtle Art of Understanding Others (Korea)

Nunchi is the Korean concept of understanding others' emotions and adjusting behaviour accordingly. It promotes harmony and empathy through emotional intelligence.

  • Relevance Today: In a multicultural world, Nunchi offers valuable insights into the importance of empathy and emotional awareness in fostering effective cross-cultural communication, reducing conflict, and promoting global cooperation.

20. Maitri (Buddhism) - Universal Love and Compassion

Maitri (or Mettā) is a Buddhist practice of loving-kindness that emphasises cultivating compassion for all beings. It encourages acting with love, kindness, and understanding towards others, regardless of their background or identity.

  • Relevance Today: In the face of increasing global conflicts, Maitri serves as a model for building peace, offering a transformative approach to international relations and personal interactions by emphasising the importance of compassion and mutual respect.

21. Lagom – The Concept of Balance (Sweden)

Lagom, a Swedish concept meaning “just the right amount,” advocates for balance and sufficiency, not excess. It promotes a lifestyle of moderation, encouraging contentment with less.

  • Relevance Today: In an era of overconsumption, where environmental and social sustainability are critical concerns, Lagom promotes sustainable practices and conscious consumption, offering a solution to issues like climate change and resource depletion.

 

Philosophy

Core Concept

Comparison with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

Hongik Ingan (Korea)

"Benefit all humankind"

Promotes collective well-being and global responsibility, similar to the unity and interconnectedness in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Ubuntu (Africa)

"I am because we are"

Emphasises interconnectedness and mutual care, aligning with the global family ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Pancasila (Indonesia)

Unity, social justice, and respect for diversity

Promotes unity and social justice, similar to the inclusivity and respect for diversity in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Wabi-Sabi (Japan)

Simplicity, imperfection, and transience

Advocates for balance and acceptance, similar to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's call for harmonious coexistence.

Confucianism (China)

Social harmony, respect for relationships

Emphasises societal harmony and moral integrity, resonating with the societal order and mutual respect in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Aloha Spirit (Hawaii)

Love, peace, and mutual respect

Promotes love and mutual respect for harmonious coexistence, in line with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's emphasis on global harmony.

Lagom (Sweden)

Balance and moderation

Encourages sustainable living and balance, akin to the ethical living promoted by Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Henosis (Greece)

Oneness with the divine

Advocates spiritual unity, similar to the spiritual interconnectedness emphasised in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Tikkun Olam (Judaism)

"Repairing the world"

Promotes social responsibility and global solidarity, aligning with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's call for collective action.

Maitri/Mettā (Buddhism)

Universal loving-kindness and compassion

Emphasises compassion and love for all beings, resonating with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's universal compassion.

Ujamaa (Tanzania)

"Familyhood" and collective welfare

Advocates for community and social justice, paralleling the inclusive and collective well-being in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Nunchi (Korea)

Emotional intelligence and understanding

Encourages empathy and mutual understanding, promoting harmonious relationships in alignment with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Sarbat Da Bhala (Sikhism)

Welfare of all

Focuses on collective well-being, aligning with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's vision of global familyhood and mutual welfare.

Seventh Generation (Native American)

Long-term vision and responsibility

Advocates for intergenerational responsibility, similar to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's collective responsibility for future generations.

Maitri (Buddhism)

Loving-kindness toward all beings

Promotes universal love and compassion, aligning with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's values of interconnectedness and empathy.

 

 

Sarbat Da Bhala (Sikhism)

Welfare of all

Focuses on collective well-being and selfless service to humanity, aligning with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's vision of universal brotherhood and social responsibility.

Seventh Generation (Native American)

Long-term vision and responsibility

Advocates for decisions that benefit future generations, resonating with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's emphasis on collective welfare across time.

Maitri/Mettā (Buddhism)

Universal loving-kindness and compassion

Emphasises compassion for all beings, reinforcing Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's call for global harmony and interconnectedness.

Ujamaa (Tanzania)

"Familyhood" and collective welfare

Promotes community self-reliance, equality, and collective prosperity, paralleling the inclusive spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Nunchi (Korea)

Emotional intelligence and understanding

Focuses on empathy and understanding in human relationships, which aligns with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's emphasis on mutual respect and harmony.

Lagom (Sweden)

Balance and moderation

Advocates for moderation in all aspects of life, promoting sustainability and balance, which mirrors the ethical living promoted by Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Aloha Spirit (Hawaii)

Love, peace, and mutual respect

Encourages love and mutual respect for harmonious coexistence, aligning with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's global harmony and inclusivity.

Henosis (Greece)

Oneness with the divine

Emphasises unity and spiritual oneness, resonating with the interconnectedness emphasised in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Tikkun Olam (Judaism)

"Repairing the world"

Stresses the ethical duty to repair and improve the world, aligning with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's focus on collective action and social responsibility.

Maitri (Buddhism)

Loving-kindness towards all beings

Promotes universal compassion, similar to the emphasis on empathy and interconnectedness in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Ujamaa (Tanzania)

"Familyhood" and collective living

Advocates for collective welfare and shared prosperity, akin to the universal kinship fostered in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Confucian Harmony (China)

Social harmony and moral integrity

Emphasises societal harmony, respect, and duty, which aligns with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's call for mutual respect and societal well-being.

This table captures how the diverse global philosophies continue to reflect the principles of unity, compassion, mutual respect, and collective responsibility. These philosophies provide essential frameworks for addressing modern challenges, such as inequality, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion, reinforcing the global relevance of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in the 21st century.

This table highlights how these diverse global philosophies align with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, emphasising common values of unity, responsibility, compassion, and sustainability, which are increasingly important in the context of global challenges today.

Global Relevance and Contemporary Need

The shared philosophical ideals of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and its global counterparts—from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas—provide profound insights into addressing today’s pressing global challenges. In an increasingly interconnected world, interconnectedness, collective responsibility, compassion, and ethical living offer a strong foundation for confronting climate change, inequality, and political division.

By embracing these universal values, we can foster deeper intercultural dialogue, encourage global peace and cooperation, and create sustainable, inclusive societies. These philosophies promote collective action, urging humanity to act as one global family where all well-being is prioritised and the future is shaped by mutual respect and shared responsibility.

As nations and communities navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the wisdom embedded in these global philosophies provides a guiding framework for ethical governance, social justice, and global solidarity. These teachings offer a vision for a harmonious, just, and sustainable world that transcends national and cultural boundaries.

These philosophical traditions are more relevant than ever in today's globalised world. They emphasise ethical living, interconnectedness, and social responsibility—essential for building a peaceful and just world that respects the environment and promotes equality for all.

  • Promoting Peace and Social Justice: Philosophies like Ubuntu, Tikkun Olam, and Ujamaa stress the importance of community, solidarity, and mutual responsibility. They advocate for justice, inclusivity, and peaceful coexistence, necessary for harmonious relationships between diverse groups and nations.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Teachings such as Lagom and Maitri guide living sustainably and harmoniously with nature. These principles are critical as the world grapples with the environmental challenges of climate change, resource depletion, and ecological imbalance.
  • Cross-Cultural Understanding: Concepts like Nunchi and Aloha emphasise empathy, emotional intelligence, and cultural sensitivity, all essential for bridging divides in our increasingly globalised society. These values foster mutual understanding and cooperation across cultures.
  • Interconnectedness and Collective Action: From Korea’s Hongik Ingan to Greece’s Henosis, these philosophies highlight that all humans are part of a greater whole. They call for collective action to address global environmental, political, or social challenges.

As we face challenges that extend beyond borders, these shared ethical frameworks provide solutions to the global crises we encounter. By embracing the timeless values embedded in these global philosophies, humanity can move towards a more harmonious and sustainable future, acting with compassion, responsibility, and solidarity. Through collective action grounded in these universal principles, we can build a future where the well-being of all is prioritised and the world thrives in unity.

Shared Ethical Foundations

Despite cultural and historical differences, these philosophies underline shared principles:

  • Interconnectedness: Humanity as one family, interconnected and interdependent.
  • Compassion and Empathy: Central to ethical living, promoting kindness and understanding across divides.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: Embracing cultural differences as enriching rather than divisive.
  • Social Responsibility: A collective commitment to global well-being and sustainable practices.

Contemporary Applications

  1. Sustainable Development
    The ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam aligns with global sustainability frameworks like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasising interdependence between humans and the environment.
  2. Interfaith Dialogue
    In a world often divided by religious differences, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is a unifying principle promoting dialogue and mutual understanding across faiths.
  3. Global Governance
    Concepts like Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam inspire global cooperation in addressing challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality, underscoring the interconnectedness of humanity.
  4. Education for Peace
    Integrating values of inclusivity and empathy into curricula fosters a new generation committed to global harmony.

Conclusion

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and its analogous philosophical traditions reflect humanity's universal aspiration for unity, compassion, and ethical living. These shared values of interconnectedness and global responsibility are profoundly relevant in addressing the pressing challenges of the modern world, such as climate change, inequality, and cultural conflicts. Rooted in timeless wisdom, these principles offer a guiding framework for fostering harmony, inclusivity, and sustainable coexistence in an increasingly polarised global community.

From African Ubuntu and Jewish Tikkun Olam to the Indic philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, these ideologies highlight the transformative power of shared responsibility and collective action. They inspire pathways toward addressing global crises by emphasising social justice, environmental stewardship, and intercultural dialogue. As nations come together to confront global challenges, these philosophies remain vital in building a just, peaceful, and interconnected world where the well-being of all is seen as intrinsically linked.

References

1.       A G Krishna Warrier (1953), Maha Upanishad, Theosophical Society, Madras

2.       A G Krishna Warrier (1953), Maha Upanishad, Theosophical Society, Madras, Verse VI 71-73

3.       B P Singh and Dalai Lama (2008). Bahudha and the Post 9/11 World, Oxford University Press,

4.       Badiani, Hiro G. (September 2008). Hinduism: Path of the Ancient Wisdom. ISBN: 978-0-595-70183-4

5.       Badiani, Hiro G. (September 2008). Hinduism: Path of the Ancient Wisdom.

6.       Badlani, Hiro G. (September 2008). Hinduism: Path of the Ancient Wisdom. iUniverse.

  1. BehaviourClassical Greek concept of Henosis and its alignment with Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (Section 2.3.8).
  2. BehaviourComparative analyses of Ubuntu, Hongik Ingan, and Tikkun Olam as cited in scholarly interpretations of global philosophical traditions. Journal/Book Title (Vol. Issue), page range.
  3. BehaviourComparative analysis of Ubuntu, Hongik Ingan, and Pancasila from the uploaded file. Section 2.3.
  4. BehaviourComparative parallels with Ubuntu, Hongik Ingan, and Pancasila (Chapter 2, Section 2.3).
  5. BehaviourExtracts and interpretations from Maha Upanishad and Hitopadesha (uploaded file).
  6. BehaviourIntegration of global philosophies like Tikkun Olam and Henosis from cultural analysis (uploaded document, Section 2.3.10).
  7. BehaviourJewish principles like Tikkun Olam and their relevance (Section 2.3.10).
  8. BehaviourWabi-Sabi and Confucianism parallels as outlined in Chapter 2 of the uploaded document.
  9. Contemporary relevance in sustainability and interfaith harmony (Section 2.4).

16.   Deussen, Paul (1 January 1997). Sixty Upanishads of the Veda. Motilal Banarsidass Publishers.

17.   Deussen, Paul (2010). The Philosophy of the Upanishads. Oxford University Press (Reprinted by Cosimo).

18.   Hattangadi, Sunder (2000). "महोपिनषत् (Maha Upanishad) 20 January 2016.

  1. Hitopadesha. (n.d.). Book 1, Chapter 3, Verse 2.

20.   Jeffrey Moses (2002). Oneness, Random House Publishing

  1. Maha Upanishad and Hitopadesha. (n.d.). Cited in uploaded document, Chapter 2.
  2. Maha Upanishad. (n.d.). Chapter 6, Verses 71–75.

23.   Robin Seelan (2015). Deconstructing Global Citizenship (Editors: Hassan Bashir and Philips Gray), Routledge,

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25.   Sheridan, Daniel (1986). The Advaitic Theism of the Bhāgavata Purāṇa. Columbia: South Asia Books.

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27.   Tinoco, Carlos Alberto (1996). Upanishads. IBRASA. ISBN 978-85-348-0040-2.

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