Essays: January 2024 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Wisdom Finds Truth 

“The Only True Wisdom is in Knowing You Know Nothing”   —Socrates

In the complex fabric of human life, the timeless pursuit of wisdom has always been a constant journey. As individuals navigate the complexities of life, they are often confronted with the need to discern truth from falsehood, and clarity from ambiguity. This quest for wisdom, intertwined with the discovery of truth, forms a symbiotic relationship that has been a cornerstone of human intellectual and spiritual development throughout history. 
Wisdom, in its essence, transcends mere knowledge. While knowledge refers to the accumulation of facts and information, wisdom encompasses a deeper understanding that involves insight, discernment, and the ability to make sound judgments. It is the application of knowledge in a way that promotes a harmonious and balanced existence. Wisdom is not static but dynamic, evolving through experiences, reflections, and the continuous quest for a deeper understanding of the self and the world.
The search for truth is a fundamental aspect of the human condition. From ancient philosophical inquiries to modern scientific investigations, humans have sought to uncover the underlying principles and realities that govern existence. Truth, in this context, is not merely a collection of facts but a profound understanding of the nature of reality, ethics, and purpose. The quest for truth is a journey marked by curiosity, skepticism, and a relentless pursuit of deeper understanding.
Wisdom and truth intersect in various dimensions. Wisdom, as the application of knowledge with discernment, enables individuals to navigate the complexities of life with a profound understanding of the underlying truths that govern human existence. In turn, the pursuit of truth contributes to the development of wisdom, as the process of seeking truth involves critical thinking, self-reflection, and an openness to challenging one's preconceptions.
One avenue through which wisdom is cultivated is through lived experiences. Life's challenges and triumphs provide a fertile ground for the development of wisdom. Through facing adversity, making choices, and learning from the consequences of actions, individuals gain insights that contribute to their wisdom. Each experience becomes a lesson, shaping a person's worldview and influencing their ability to discern truth from falsehood.
Throughout the history of philosophy, thinkers from different traditions and cultures have contemplated the relationship between wisdom and truth. In ancient Greek philosophy, Socratic wisdom emphasized the acknowledgment of one's ignorance as the starting point for true understanding. Socrates' famous statement, "I know that I am intelligent, because I know that I know nothing," highlights the humility and openness to truth inherent in wisdom.
Eastern philosophies, such as Buddhism and Taoism, emphasize the cultivation of wisdom through mindfulness, meditation, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. The pursuit of truth in these traditions involves transcending the illusions of the ego and gaining insight into the impermanence and interdependence of existence.
Wisdom is not only about intellectual understanding but also encompasses ethical dimensions. The wise person is often characterized by virtues such as compassion, empathy, and a sense of justice. These ethical dimensions are closely linked to the pursuit of truth, as understanding the ethical implications of actions requires a deep appreciation of the truth about human nature, society, and the consequences of one's choices.
Reflection and contemplation are integral to the development of wisdom. Taking the time to ponder one's experiences, beliefs, and values allows for a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. In this process, individuals confront their biases, challenge their assumptions, and open themselves to the possibility of discovering new truths. Contemplation, whether through philosophical inquiry or spiritual practices, becomes a pathway to wisdom and truth.
In the realm of scientific inquiry, the pursuit of truth is often framed as the search for objective knowledge. The scientific method, with its emphasis on empirical observation, hypothesis testing, and peer review, seeks to uncover universal truths about the natural world. However, the scientific quest for truth is not devoid of philosophical considerations, as scientists grapple with questions about the nature of reality, causality, and the limits of human understanding.
Despite the earnest pursuit of wisdom and truth, humans are bound by the limitations of their perception and cognition. The subjective nature of individual experiences, coupled with cognitive biases and cultural influences, can impede the attainment of absolute truth. Recognizing these limitations is an essential aspect of wisdom, prompting individuals to approach truth with humility and an awareness of the inherent complexity of reality.
In the contemporary era, marked by unprecedented access to information through technology, the quest for wisdom and truth faces new challenges. The wealth of information, frequently accompanied by misinformation and disinformation, necessitates individuals to refine their abilities in critical thinking. Navigating the digital landscape calls for a discerning mind capable of sifting through the vast sea of information to extract meaningful truths.
As individuals strive for wisdom and truth, they often find themselves on a parallel journey toward virtue. Virtue, in this context, refers to the cultivation of moral excellence and ethical character. The virtuous person, guided by wisdom and an understanding of truth, seeks to live a life aligned with principles of goodness, justice, and compassion. The interconnectedness of wisdom, truth, and virtue creates a holistic framework for a meaningful and purposeful existence.
In the intricate dance between wisdom and truth, human beings embark on a journey that transcends the boundaries of time and culture. Wisdom, with its roots in the deep understanding of oneself and the world, becomes the guiding force in the pursuit of truth. Conversely, the quest for truth, whether through philosophical inquiry, scientific exploration, or lived experiences, contributes to the development of wisdom.
As individuals navigate the complexities of life, they encounter the ethical dimensions of wisdom, the transformative power of reflection, and the limitations of human perception. Philosophical perspectives from various traditions shed light on the profound connection between wisdom and truth, emphasizing humility, openness, and a continual willingness to explore the mysteries of existence.
In the digital age, where information abounds and misinformation proliferates, the need for discernment and critical thinking becomes paramount. The virtuous person, guided by wisdom and truth, seeks to navigate the complexities of the modern world with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to ethical principles.
In the journey of life, seeking wisdom is not a one-time thing but a constant exploration. Wisdom and truth mix together, forming a story of learning, discovering, and always trying to understand life better.
“Nothing will Satisfy You Until You Know the Truth for Yourself” — Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

South Asian Societies are Woven not Around The State, but Around Their Plural Cultures and Plural Identities

A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.”– Mahatma Gandhi

South Asia, a region comprising eight distinct nations, is characterized by a rich tapestry woven not around the state but around its plural cultures and identities. Unlike western societies where the nation-state often serves as the primary marker of social cohesion, South Asia defies such singular narratives. The dynamic cultural landscape of South Asia emphasizes the diverse languages, religions, ethnicities, and customs that contribute to the region's vibrant tapestry.
South Asia, despite its intricate and occasionally tumultuous history, is bound by a profound historical connection. The experiences of colonial rule, the collective struggles for independence, and shared challenges such as poverty and environmental degradation have forged a sense of solidarity and regional cooperation. This common historical background forms the basis for collaborative efforts and collective action in addressing present and future challenges.
The diverse and rich expressions of plural cultures and identities in South Asia reflect the region's vast population, encompassing various ethnicities, languages, religions, and traditions. Among these groups are the Indo-Aryans, Dravidians, Tibeto-Burmans, Mongoloids, Austroasiatics, and others, each with distinct histories, cultures, and identities shaped by factors such as geography, migration, colonization, and globalization.
In South Asian nations, a diverse canvas unfolds, characterized by the prevalence of Islam's green hue, interwoven with lively strands of Sufi mysticism and a myriad of regional languages. This variety goes beyond religious and linguistic boundaries, encompassing culinary practices, artistic forms, and social traditions, illustrating the interlinked nature of the region.
Illustrations of this diversity include the Sindhis, an Indo-Aryan ethnic group predominantly residing in Pakistan's Sindh province and western India. The cultural panorama of South Asia resembles a kaleidoscope, where a multitude of languages, religions, ethnicities, and customs exist in harmony, each contributing unique threads to the collective fabric. In India, one experiences the vivid colors of Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and various regional traditions. These diverse religious and cultural practices seamlessly intertwine with languages like Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, and Telugu, forming a mosaic of identities. The Tamils, a Dravidian ethnic group concentrated in Tamil Nadu (India) and northern and eastern Sri Lanka, exhibit one of the world's oldest literary traditions, reflected in language, literature, music, dance, and cinema. Their cuisine, emphasizing rice, lentils, spices, and coconut, is equally distinctive. 
These interwoven identities are not merely passive facets of society but actively shape individual and collective experiences. Religious festivals like Diwali, Eid al-Fitr, and Songkran bring communities together in a vibrant dance of shared joy and tradition. Languages like Pashto and Bengali transcend borders, fostering a sense of regional cultural unity. Meanwhile, the Gurungs, a Tibeto-Burman ethnic group in central and western Nepal, possess their language, religion, and social organization. Renowned for their bravery in the British and Indian armies, they celebrate Tamu Lhosar, a vibrant festival marking the Gurung New Year.
Even culinary traditions, from the fiery curries of South India to the aromatic pulaos of Afghanistan, stand as testaments to the shared heritage and interconnectedness of the region. These cultural expressions serve as threads binding the diverse peoples of South Asia into a collective identity, showcasing the richness of their pluralistic heritage.
Depicting South Asia as a uniform cultural blend would oversimplify its dynamic and complex nature. Each nation holds internal diversity, often along lines of caste, ethnicity, and language, forming a diverse social landscape. The challenges faced by Dalits in India, the Bihari community in Nepal, and the Rohingya in Myanmar underscore the ongoing struggles for inclusion and the battle against marginalization within these nations.
Shared cultural heritage, internal diversity significantly influences the social structure of each nation. It's crucial to acknowledge and address the distinct challenges faced by different communities within these countries to promote a more inclusive and fair society. Cultural exchange programs, educational initiatives, and policies that address the specific needs of marginalized groups can contribute to building a more cohesive and inclusive South Asian society. The emphasis should be on recognizing and appreciating the value of each cultural thread within the larger tapestry, promoting a sense of belonging and shared identity.
The shared cultural fabric serves as a strong tool for promoting unity and dialogue. Efforts like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the South Asian Games create opportunities for cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and conflict resolution. Literature, cinema, and music go beyond national borders, providing shared experiences and promoting mutual understanding among diverse communities.
Bollywood and Cricket are two cultural giants that transcend borders, uniting South Asians across the globe. Bollywood's vibrant song and dance extravaganzas captivate audiences, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan all have cricket teams and cricket matches become national spectacles, uniting fans in passionate cheers. Both industries project South Asian culture onto the world stage, fostering a sense of shared identity and pride.
Indigenous tribal communities in South Asia are diverse and rich in their cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. They have been living in harmony with nature and preserving their distinct identities for centuries. The Santhals are one of the largest tribal groups in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. They have their own language, script, religion, and art forms. They are known for their indigenous learning system, which is based on oral transmission, intuition, and ancestral wisdom. The Vedda are the indigenous inhabitants of Sri Lanka. They are hunter-gatherers who live in the forests and caves. They have their own language, which is related to Sinhala, but has many words of unknown origin. They have a strong connection with nature and practice animism, worshiping the spirits of their ancestors and the natural elements. 
The design and construction of buildings in South Asia are influenced by various factors, such as geography, climate, materials, religion, and culture. Each country has its own architectural heritage and style, reflecting its unique history and identity. The use of local materials, such as wood, stone, brick, and mud, to create structures that are adapted to the environment and available resources. For example, in the Himalayan regions, wooden houses are common, while in the arid regions, mud-brick houses are prevalent.
There is a huge influence of religion and spirituality, especially Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam, on the design and decoration of buildings. For example, Hindu temples are characterized by elaborate carvings, sculptures, and towers, while Buddhist stupas are dome-shaped structures that contain relics of the Buddha. Islamic architecture is marked by the use of arches, domes, minarets, and geometric patterns.
Architectural design seamlessly blends with cultural values and traditions, embodying key elements such as harmony, balance, symmetry, and proportion. For example, the Taj Mahal in India is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture that symbolizes love, beauty, and perfection. The Sigiriya rock fortress in Sri Lanka is a remarkable example of ancient urban planning that integrates nature, art, and engineering. The National Assembly Building in Bangladesh is a monumental structure that combines elements of Islamic, Bengali, and Brutalist architecture.
Understanding the diverse soft power of South Asia is essential, as each country brings unique cultural strengths. While there is diversity, recognizing shared elements allows for harnessing collective soft power to promote regional cooperation, tackle global challenges, and present a positive international image. It is crucial to acknowledge internal diversity to address social inequalities and promote inclusivity within each nation. The future of the region depends on recognizing and celebrating its rich cultural tapestry. South Asia can flourish by appreciating pluralism, going beyond geopolitical divisions, and finding unity in its diversity.
Creativity in children leads to a culture of excellence.” – APJ Abdul Kalam

Real is Rational and Rational is Real

An Error Does Not Become Truth by Reason of Multiplied Propagation, Nor Does Truth Become an Error Because Nobody Sees It. -Mahatma Gandhi
Rationalism is fundamentally the tendency of human beings to ask questions and look for solutions to the different aspects of reality. It is a phenomenon that stimulates awareness and prompts questioning. In reaction to philosophical movements, rationalism thrived. It places a lot of focus on applying logic to evaluate facts and concepts. Rationality is applied in the majority of domains of life. Although there are many various views on what rationality is? It is widely accepted that it is the capacity to learn from the failures and successes of the past. Rationality is the result of a critical mind. Being rational requires the ability to think critically. It is the capacity to assess a claim, viewpoint, or ideas critically and decide if it is true or false. Rationality requires a logical mind and the capacity for critical thought.
Rationality promotes scientific temperament in the individual. Scientific temperament enables people to raise the question of what exists in the universe. Scientific invention, discovery and exploration are all the outcome of human rationality. Rationalism is the very fundamental essence of humanity. When the light of rationality illuminates the human brain, intellectualism takes birth. The rise of rationalism is the renaissance which happened during the 14th to 17th century in Europe.
Following the Middle Ages, Europe had a passionate era of cultural, artistic, political, and economic "rebirth" during the Renaissance. The Renaissance, often seen as occurring between the 14th and the 17th centuries, fostered the rediscovery of ancient philosophy, literature, and art. The Renaissance was basically the rise of rationalism. Every intellectual perspective became more visible under the illumination of rationalism.
Article 51 A(h), of the Fundamental Duties (FDs) which was introduced in the Indian constitution in the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act,1976. It is the responsibility of every Indian citizen to develop scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform. The spirit of inquiry is basically promoting rationalism in human beings. If we want to know the reality of the universe or cosmos, then our approach should be rational. The truths about who we are, the world we live in, and the cosmos may be discovered if we think logically and rationally. Truth and reason go hand in hand. It is not possible to imagine one exist without the other.
Rationality is continually looking for reality, and reality can only be found in the light of rationality. The Indian legal system is based on the principle of rationality. Judges attempt to make judgements based on evidence rather than preconceived notions, emotions, and sentiments. Rationality serves as the standard by which reality is evaluated. Rationality is continually trying to give truth the upper hand and truth is real. Thus, what is rational is also real, and vice versa.
Rational people may attain their life objectives by having the ability to control their thoughts and conduct. They have the self-control to avoid engaging in unhealthy life habits such as drinking alcohol or disordered eating, and they are able to make rational judgments without letting their emotions affect them. A logical mind constantly thinks calmly, attentively, and objectively. It may be said that everyone with a rational mind has this as their ultimate goal. If you consistently participate in rational thinking, you can base your conclusions on facts and evidence. Using reason, you can recognize bad conceptions and practices.
We may better comprehend ourselves and those of others who surround us by using rational thought. It can also help us succeed since we can comprehend realities regarding true desires instead of becoming sidetracked or behaving unreasonably. Although full objectivity will never exist, logical thought is still possible. As far as objectivity is concerned, rationality encourages individuals to make informed decisions. Setting feasible micro and macro goals is the fundamental indicator of being rational, and one should be proud of one's capacity for logical thought. If you want to succeed, you must be rational.
Rational people refrain from making mistakes they'll later regret. They frequently make sound decisions because they thoroughly consider all of their possibilities. Rational individuals have unique and clear views on the purpose and vision of life. Arguments need to possess the quality of truthfulness. A belief possesses the quality of truth when it accords with reality. Similar to this, it is asserted that a belief is false when it is inconsistent with reality.
Knowing the truth is necessary in order to tell it. To determine what is right and what is not, one must exercise rationality. However, reason and the application of reason also lead to truth. While we may experience some of the truths that exist both inside and outside of us, these truths are not reliant on our understanding or our capacity to perceive them.
The truth exists without our intervention. We can comprehend things because we can think about them rationally. The seeker of truth cannot ignore the search for reason because finding based on emotions and our feelings generally ignores reality and truth. The ideal circumstance is one in which you are free to choose solely what is best for you, without taking into account the repercussions or any other factors. When we are logical, we may draw conclusions that are in our own best interests. When we act impulsively, our judgments typically reflect our emotions instead of reality or reason. We can end up making poor decisions about our finances or even our interpersonal relationships as a result of this. As a result of their illogical behavior, this can cause them to make one poor decision, which might cause them to experience financial insecurity.
Financial matters need more accurate decisions. Accuracy in decision making depends on basic information and conceptual clarity. Conceptual clarity and basic information bring the ability to think and make decisions rationally. Poor financial choices frequently lock people in a cycle of poverty where they are unable to advance because they continue to spend more than they bring in. People who get into this debt trap frequently end themselves in even more debt because they use credit cards and other types of credit to pay off debts from earlier purchases while acting irrationally, which causes them to slip into the debt trap.
The rational is real, and the real is rational. Both reality and rationality are true. It very clearly signifies how reason and reality both complement one another. Considering that there are two viewpoints on truth, real and rational. Both viewpoints come to the same conclusion: both reality and reason are true. It is essential to understand how these factors interact. Creating arguments, drawing conclusions, and identifying causes and consequences are all aspects of rational justification, which is the main focus of rationality. In other words, thinking and emotion are both involved in reasoning.
Three Things cannot be Long Hidden: The Sun, The Moon, and The Truth.  – Buddha

Can Capitalism Bring Inclusive Growth?

–Suneel Sheoran

The recent Oxfam Report, 2016 has once again brought forth the debate on global inequality in light of its findings that the richest 1 per cent of the world’s population now own more than the rest of us combined. This debate on global inequality in contemporary times also raises a question mark on the ability of capitalism – the economic system predominantly being followed all over the world, barring a few exceptions, to deliver inclusive growth. Capitalism is an economic system believed to have been born in the aftermath of the industrial revolution in the eighteenth century Europe. It is based on private enterprise and private ownership of means of production like land, labor, capital etc. as compared to the economic system of Socialism, on the other end of the spectrum, which encourages public or state ownership of means of production. The producers belonging to the elite capitalist class are driven by the sole motive of profit. However, the system of capitalism has been criticized since its inception due to the exploitation of working class under horrible working conditions and low wages and for the very fact that it divides societies into classes of ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’. Its proponents have pointed towards ills of other economic systems and freedom of choice to encourage a laissez faire system. However in light of the growing global economic inequality and poor standards of living even among sections of citizens in first world countries that have been following capitalism in spirit and law for centuries, certainly does raise a question on capitalism’s flaws and its ability to deliver inclusive growth.
The concept of inclusive growth focuses on equitable growth for all sections of society. This involves ensuring that fruits of growth and development reach the poor and marginalized sections as well. Capitalism, with profit as sole motive, at times fails to reach areas that require prioritization of social welfare i.e. working on a non-profit basis. For e.g. running of schools and hospitals in rural and underdeveloped areas, building of public infrastructure like roads, rails etc. in rural areas etc. This leads to concentration of development works and industrialization led growth only in urban areas and hence creates regional inequality. Such regional inequality slowly turns into socio-economic inequality as well due to lack of meaningful employment opportunities in areas left out of the Capitalist development model and strikes at the very root of inclusive growth. Moreover this increases urban migration leading to overcrowding and straining of public resources which in turn results in people living in miserable conditions.
In a race for delivering higher profits to owners, capitalist producers of goods and services compromise on payment of adequate wages and proper working conditions. For e.g. news reports of lack of payment of even minimum wages to laborers in certain sectors of economy like construction, textile etc. is not uncommon in India. Private firms loyal only to the shareholders don’t feel inclined to share wealth with their employees. Resentment even among middle class employees regarding their long working hours and inadequate compensation in also quite prevalent. For e.g. in view of the sixth and seventh pay commissions’ reports many educated youth are contemplating switching to government jobs even if they may be deemed overqualified for such jobs and even if it entails forgoing the corporate sector perks. Such tendency of the corporate capitalist class to squeeze out the proverbial last dollar leads only to enrichment of the already rich sections of society at the cost of the poor and middle class whose labor is undervalued.
Capitalism also attaches great importance to the idea of free and efficient markets to achieve growth and development. But, time and again, it has been seen that markets fail to allocate resources and fruits of growth efficiently and are rather skewed due to monopolistic or anti-competition practices and their short sighted views on growth. For e.g. the Bombay Stock Exchange lost a number of points the day the Indian government announced its scheme for public food security. The markets hence failed to take a long term view on growth by not recognizing that only a well fed population can lead to holistic and sustainable growth for all. Instead the free market proponents chose to pressurize government to take back its social-welfare program. The markets, moreover, driven with the sole aim of profit have frequently led the world into economic crisis accompanied by fall in employment rates and growth rates affecting the marginalized sections of developing and least developed economies the worst due to their greater vulnerability. This further serves only to widen the global inequality and the gap between the ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’. For e.g. the 2007-08 subprime crisis, though originated in USA due to uninhibited greed and unethical practices of investment banks, soon engulfed the entire world economy leading to fall in growth rates across the globe. But the bailout package of developed world economies ensured that the capitalist class largely remained unaffected even though the middle class and marginalized sections suffered due to economic slowdown.
Therefore capitalism has a number of shortcomings in its implementation and is not necessarily serving the purpose of inclusive growth. But, can the system be regulated and tweaked so as to promote greater inclusion and equitable growth? Capitalists themselves have come to realize that sustained high rates of growth leading to wealth generation for all are possible only when there is greater purchasing power in hands of the consumer. Companies have come to realize that a happy employee means a better bottom line. This has meant gradually paying higher wages and improving working conditions for workers. Along with stricter government regulations on labor laws, this has brought in drastic improvement in workers’ conditions when compared to the days of industrial revolution.
The focus on private enterprise for the sole motive of profit maybe responsible for a number of ills as discussed but it can also leads to greater efficiency. This heightened efficiency and enterprise in turn boosts economic production, employment opportunities, wealth generation and GDP growth rates leading to better living standards and pulling millions out of poverty. For e.g. before the economic liberalization of the 90’s Indian economy was a closed one with the public sector controlling most of the economy. The lackadaisical work culture that it promoted coupled with regressive economic policies of the then governments almost led Indian economy to the verge of bankruptcy. However since economic liberalization that opened up Indian economy for private sector and limited the role of public sector to only certain areas, Indian economy has grown at a rapid pace and is today not only the fastest growing economy in the world but also the world’s third largest economy by purchasing power parity. Though it has created a class of super-rich Indians, it has also pulled millions out of poverty. Between 2004 and 2012, India reduced its poverty levels by approximately 15 percentage points, in the process pulling a staggering 20 million Indians out of poverty per year.
However this success story of Indian economy would not have been possible without effective government control via regulations that ensured that the wealth so generated reached all sections of society either directly via the ‘trickle down’ effect or via its numerous social welfare programs. Therefore the malaise of wealth in only a few hands in capitalism can be corrected by the government stepping in to have a system of taxation that promotes economic equality, encouraging entrepreneurship and setting up venture capital funds to support entrepreneurs from the lower socio-economic strata; running social welfare programs that ensure substantive equality of opportunity by providing affordable quality education and health services. For e.g. Government of India recognizes this responsibility and hence to encourage entrepreneurship among marginalized sections of society and enhance socio-economic equality, it has started ‘Start-Up India’. Enhancing equality of opportunity in order to counter the capitalism induced inequality also requires the government to ensure access to quality infrastructure necessary for running business – both public infrastructure as well as digital infrastructure which is increasingly becoming lifeline of today’s economy.
Therefore, capitalism as an economic system has a number of problems that have resulted in growing global socio-economic inequality. Issues like low wages, poor working conditions, regionally concentrated development, enrichment of only a particular class and blind faith in efficiency of markets result in a skewed growth model that goes against the concept of inclusive growth. This leads to rising social unrest and raises question mark on the very concept of capitalism delivering inclusive growth. However while the system of capitalism has its flaws, regulated by a government that works on social welfare model, capitalism can lead to improved efficiency in enterprise, enhance private investments and can boost economic production while at the same time raising the capital necessary for a government to run its social schemes for the betterment of the poor and the marginalized. For e.g. the Scandinavian countries have followed the capitalist mode with a strong regulatory regime and social welfare which led to praiseworthy results. Inequality adjusted HDI regularly rank Scandinavian Countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland among the top ten countries. This shows that the model of capitalism can be made to deliver inclusive growth provided the governments and civil societies across the world know how to tame the beast!