Explain Ruskin’s “Unto This Last”.
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Explain Ruskin’s “Unto This Last”.
"Unto This Last" is a collection of essays by the Victorian art critic and social thinker John Ruskin, published in 1860. In this work, Ruskin addresses economic and social issues, critiquing the prevailing economic theories of his time and proposing an alternative vision based on moral and ethical principles.
The title "Unto This Last" is derived from a parable in the Bible, emphasizing the concept that every individual is entitled to a fair share in the blessings of life. Ruskin's ideas in this work were in response to the prevailing economic theories of classical political economy, particularly the works of economists like Adam Smith and John Stuart Mill.
Ruskin challenges the dehumanizing aspects of capitalism and industrialization, advocating for a more humane and just economic system. He rejects the idea that wealth is the sole measure of a nation's prosperity and argues that the well-being of individuals, along with considerations of justice and morality, should be the primary focus of economic systems.
Key themes in "Unto This Last" include:
Labor and Value: Ruskin contends that true value is derived from labor and the skill invested in production. He questions the prevailing notion that the market solely determines the value of goods and emphasizes the dignity of labor.
Wealth and Justice: Ruskin argues that wealth should be distributed justly, ensuring that all members of society have access to the necessities of life. He challenges the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few, advocating for a more equitable distribution.
Social Responsibility: Ruskin emphasizes the social responsibility of individuals and institutions. He critiques the ruthless pursuit of profit and calls for businesses to prioritize the well-being of workers and the community.
"Unto This Last" had a significant impact on later thinkers, including Mahatma Gandhi, who was inspired by Ruskin's ideas on economic justice and incorporated them into his own philosophy of Sarvodaya (welfare of all). Ruskin's work remains influential for its ethical critique of economic systems and its advocacy for a more compassionate and just society.