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What did Thomas Babington Macaulay suggest should be the focus of education in India?
  • a)
    To teach only poetry and sacred literature
  • b)
    To encourage the study of Arabic and Sanskrit
  • c)
    To make Indians familiar with Western scientific and technical advances
  • d)
    To promote Oriental institutions like the Calcutta Madrasa
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
What did Thomas Babington Macaulay suggest should be the focus of educ...
Introduction to Macaulay's Educational Vision
Thomas Babington Macaulay, a prominent British historian and politician, played a crucial role in shaping the educational policies in colonial India during the 19th century. His views on education were influenced by his belief in Western superiority and the need to modernize Indian society.
Focus on Western Education
Macaulay argued that the education system in India should prioritize Western scientific and technical knowledge. His rationale included:
  • Modernization: He believed that exposure to Western ideas would enable Indians to progress and align with modern global standards.
  • Practical Knowledge: Macaulay emphasized the importance of practical skills and scientific understanding, which he felt were lacking in traditional Indian education.
  • Language of Instruction: He advocated for English as the medium of instruction, arguing that it would bridge the gap between the British rulers and the Indian populace.

Rejection of Traditional Studies
Macaulay's vision was clear in his dismissal of traditional Indian educational institutions and languages, such as Arabic and Sanskrit. He believed that:
  • Limited Relevance: Traditional subjects, including poetry and sacred literature, had little relevance in the context of scientific advancement.
  • Backwardness: Institutions like the Calcutta Madrasa were seen as outdated and not conducive to the progressive education he envisioned.

Conclusion
In summary, Macaulay's focus on making Indians familiar with Western scientific and technical advances was a pivotal aspect of his educational policy. This approach aimed to reform Indian society by introducing modernity through education, ultimately reflecting the colonial mindset of that era.
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What did Thomas Babington Macaulay suggest should be the focus of educ...
  • Thomas Babington Macaulay believed that Indians should be made familiar with the scientific and technical advances that the West had made, rather than with the poetry and sacred literature of the Orient.
  • This would help them understand the developments in Western science and philosophy, which could change their tastes, values, and culture to be more aligned with Western advancements.
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What did Thomas Babington Macaulay suggest should be the focus of education in India?a)To teach only poetry and sacred literatureb)To encourage the study of Arabic and Sanskritc)To make Indians familiar with Western scientific and technical advancesd)To promote Oriental institutions like the Calcutta MadrasaCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer? for Class 8 2025 is part of Class 8 preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the Class 8 exam syllabus. Information about What did Thomas Babington Macaulay suggest should be the focus of education in India?a)To teach only poetry and sacred literatureb)To encourage the study of Arabic and Sanskritc)To make Indians familiar with Western scientific and technical advancesd)To promote Oriental institutions like the Calcutta MadrasaCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer? covers all topics & solutions for Class 8 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for What did Thomas Babington Macaulay suggest should be the focus of education in India?a)To teach only poetry and sacred literatureb)To encourage the study of Arabic and Sanskritc)To make Indians familiar with Western scientific and technical advancesd)To promote Oriental institutions like the Calcutta MadrasaCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?.
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