Explanations:The book 'Unto This Last' was written by John Ruskin, a prominent British art critic, social thinker, and writer. John Ruskin was a significant figure in the Victorian era, known for his contributions to art criticism, social reform, and literature. 'Unto This Last' was published in 1860 and is a collection of essays that discuss economic and social issues, advocating for a more equitable society and critiquing the prevailing economic theories of his time.
The book had a profound impact on Mahatma Gandhi, who was deeply influenced by its ideas. Gandhi read 'Unto This Last' in 1904 while he was in South Africa, and it played a crucial role in shaping his philosophy of non-violent resistance and his views on economic justice. The book's emphasis on the moral and ethical dimensions of economics resonated with Gandhi, and he translated it into Gujarati to share its ideas with a wider audience in India.
John Ruskin's work in 'Unto This Last' challenged the prevailing economic theories of his time, particularly those of Adam Smith and the classical economists. Ruskin argued that the pursuit of wealth should not be the primary goal of society and that economic activities should be guided by moral and ethical considerations. He believed that the true value of goods and services should be based on their utility and the well-being they bring to society, rather than on market prices determined by supply and demand.
While other authors such as Leo Tolstoy and Ruskin Bond have also influenced Gandhiji, they are not the authors of 'Unto This Last'. Leo Tolstoy, a Russian author, was known for his works on non-violence and moral philosophy, which also influenced Gandhiji. Ruskin Bond, on the other hand, is a contemporary Indian author known for his children's literature and stories set in the Himalayas. Louis Fischer, an American journalist, wrote extensively about Gandhiji and the Indian independence movement but did not author 'Unto This Last'.
Understanding the influence of 'Unto This Last' on Gandhiji and the broader context of John Ruskin's work is essential for comprehending the intellectual and philosophical foundations of Gandhian thought. This book played a significant role in shaping Gandhiji's views on economic justice and non-violent resistance, which were central to the Indian independence movement.