Moral and Ethical Development in Sri Aurobindo’s Philosophy: A Holistic Approach to Education

Abstract

This abstract examines Sri Aurobindo's philosophy of ethical and moral development with a view to its impact on learning. Unlike traditional approaches, Aurobindo's model includes physical, mental and spiritual evolution and the expansion of consciousness — both his ultimate goal and that which he believes will produce good behavior. The present inquiry considers his notions of the human soul, the psychic spirit, and the role of education in agitating the conscience. This analysis proposes that the structure adopted by Aurobindo aligns with modern theories of moral pedagogy, and characterizes how the vision of Aurobindo is reformative to contemporary practices, which are meant for producing a more holistic moral cultivation.