Some comments about the Orientalist Vision of Learning by the British ...
British officials had criticised the Orientalist vision of learning. They said that the knowledge of the East was full of errors and unscientific thought. They saw Eastern literature as non-serious and light-hearted. So they argued that it was wrong on the part of the British to spend so much effort in encouraging the study of Arabic and Sanskrit language and literature.
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Some comments about the Orientalist Vision of Learning by the British ...
Introduction:
The Orientalist vision of learning by the British refers to their perspective on education and knowledge related to the East. They held certain beliefs and opinions about the purpose of education and the study of languages and literature in the Eastern context. The options given in the question reflect these perspectives, and we need to identify the one that is not applicable to this style of learning.
Analysis of Options:
Let's analyze each option to determine its applicability to the Orientalist vision of learning by the British:
a) British argued that the aim of education ought to be to teach what was useful and practical:
This option aligns with the Orientalist vision of learning. The British believed that education should focus on imparting practical knowledge that would be beneficial to individuals and society. This perspective reflects their utilitarian approach to education.
b) British argued that it is not advisable to encourage the study of Arabic and Sanskrit language and literature:
This option also aligns with the Orientalist vision of learning. The British believed that the study of Arabic and Sanskrit languages and literature was not necessary or beneficial. They considered these languages and literary works to be of limited value and relevance.
c) British said that knowledge of the east was full of errors and unscientific thoughts:
This option aligns with the Orientalist vision of learning. The British held the belief that the knowledge and ideas originating from the East were flawed, erroneous, and lacked scientific rigor. They considered their own Western knowledge and scientific methods to be superior and more reliable.
d) British observed that Western literature was non-serious and light-hearted:
This option is not applicable to the Orientalist vision of learning. The British did not dismiss Western literature as non-serious or light-hearted. In fact, they valued and promoted the study of Western literature as part of their educational curriculum. They considered Western literature to be culturally significant and intellectually enriching.
Conclusion:
Based on the analysis of the given options, it can be concluded that option 'D' - British observed that Western literature was non-serious and light-hearted is not applicable to the Orientalist vision of learning by the British. This option contradicts their perspective on the value and importance of Western literature in education.
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