WHO CAN BE CALLED A GREAT MAN : Dr. B.R.Ambedkar : BU- I Semester

Summary

In this video, Mukesh English analyzes Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's essay 'Who Can Be Called a Great Man,' focusing on the three essential qualities of greatness: sincerity, intellect, and social purpose. He critiques the traditional view of military heroes, emphasizing their fleeting impact on society. The video discusses various perspectives from thinkers like Thomas Carlyle and Lord Roseberry, highlighting the importance of genuine sincerity and extraordinary ability. Ultimately, Mukesh concludes that true greatness lies in a commitment to social progress, setting apart great individuals from merely eminent ones. This insightful analysis aims to simplify the complex themes of Ambedkar's essay for students.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dr. BR Ambedkar's essay 'Who Can Be Called a Great Man' examines the qualities that define greatness in individuals.
• 😀 The essay discusses three main metrics for measuring greatness: sincerity, intellect, and social purpose.
• 😀 The script explores the common view of greatness from military heroes like Alexander and Napoleon, who are often celebrated for their conquests but whose impact fades over time.
• 😀 Dr. Ambedkar challenges the lasting influence of military heroes, suggesting that their achievements do not lead to long-term societal improvement.
• 😀 According to Thomas Carlyle, a great man must possess sincerity, which should be natural and unconscious, not boastful or self-proclaimed.
• 😀 Lord Roseberry views greatness as a product of extraordinary intellect, energy, and genius, rather than moral integrity.
• 😀 Philosophers and those believing in divine guidance see a great man as someone who acts as a transformative force for society, bringing about regeneration and moral progress.
• 😀 Dr. Ambedkar critiques Carlyle's, Roseberry's, and the philosophers' views, stating that sincerity alone is not enough and intellect is also crucial for greatness.
• 😀 Dr. Ambedkar differentiates between an eminent individual and a truly great man, with social purpose being the defining factor for greatness.
• 😀 In conclusion, Dr. Ambedkar argues that true greatness combines sincerity, intellect, and a social purpose focused on improving and regenerating society.

Q & A

What is the main topic of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's essay discussed in the video?

The main topic of the essay is the definition of a 'great man' and the qualities that characterize true greatness.

What are the three key metrics Ambedkar uses to measure greatness?

The three key metrics are sincerity, intellect, and social purpose.

How does Ambedkar critique the common notion of greatness associated with military heroes?

Ambedkar argues that while military heroes like Alexander and Napoleon may achieve great victories, their impact on long-term societal progress is often minimal.

According to Thomas Carlyle, what foundational quality must a great man possess?

Carlyle believes that a great man must possess sincerity as a foundational quality, which should be genuine and natural.

What is Lord Roseberry's perspective on greatness?

Lord Roseberry defines greatness by extraordinary ability and intellect, suggesting that moral integrity is not necessary for someone to be considered great.

What do philosophers believe about the role of a great man in society?

Philosophers view a great man as a transformative force sent to cleanse society of corruption and lead it toward regeneration.

How does Ambedkar critique the views of Carlyle, Roseberry, and philosophers?

Ambedkar argues that their views are incomplete because sincerity and intellect alone do not define true greatness; a social purpose is also essential.

What distinguishes a great man from an eminent individual, according to Ambedkar?

A great man is motivated by a social purpose and actively works towards societal improvement, whereas an eminent individual may possess sincerity and intellect without this motivation.

What qualities does Ambedkar emphasize as essential for true greatness?

Ambedkar emphasizes the combination of moral integrity, intellectual strength, and commitment to social progress as essential for true greatness.

What is the significance of the video for students at Bangalore University?

The video provides a comprehensive analysis of Ambedkar's essay, which is part of the syllabus for first-semester courses at Bangalore University, making it a valuable resource for students.