ETHICAL AND MORAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH THE GURU-SHISHYA TRADITION IN INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS

Abstract

The Guru-Shishya-tradition is a paradigm of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) pedagogy, which is based on the principle of wholesome learning, by combining intellectual, ethical, and spiritual growth. This qualitative research investigates how ethical and moral values are developed in this conventional system. By employing semi-structured interviews with representatives of five classical arts and spiritual traditions (five practitioners), and supplemented by textual analysis of primary sources, such as the Upanishads and the Dharmasastras, the study determines the critical avenues of moral development. Thematic analysis showed that ethical development is mainly achieved by observational learning of the exemplary behavior of the guru, disciplinary practices, intense immersion, and service (seva). Such processes contribute to such virtues as humility, compassion, patience, and social responsibility proving that moral development cannot be separated with the overall learning process. This study contends that this pedagogical model is relevant in the modern day and proposes that the application of principles of mentorship, relational learning, and value-oriented practices in the contemporary educational setting would foster character building, development of ethical consciousness, and responsible social behavior in learners.