Seven Social Sins

MKGandhi

Arun Gandhi at Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial 4 April 2012 crop

Seven Social Sins is a list that was first mentioned in a sermon delivered by Frederick Lewis Donaldson in Westminster Abbey, London, on March 20, 1925. The list was later popularized by Mahatma Gandhi who published it in his weekly newspaper Young India on October 22, 1925. Gandhi introduced it as a list of the seven social sins that could destroy both individuals and societies. Over the years, this list has been widely referenced in discussions about morality, ethics, and social responsibility.

The Seven Social Sins

1. Wealth without work: This refers to the practice of getting rich through means that involve no real effort or productive work, exploiting others, or engaging in unethical activities for financial gain.
2. Pleasure without conscience: This sin highlights the pursuit of pleasure in disregard of ethical considerations and the impact of one’s actions on others and society at large.
3. Knowledge without character: This points to the acquisition of knowledge without the moral integrity to use it wisely and ethically, leading to misuse and harm.
4. Commerce without morality: This emphasizes the importance of ethical principles in business practices, criticizing those who engage in commerce with no concern for moral values and the common good.
5. Science without humanity: This warns against scientific advancements that are made without consideration for their effects on human beings and the environment, suggesting that science should serve to better the human condition.
6. Religion without sacrifice: This sin suggests that religion ought to involve personal sacrifice and not just rituals and ceremonies. It criticizes practices of faith that do not translate into ethical and compassionate actions towards others.
7. Politics without principle: This highlights the danger of engaging in political activities that are devoid of principles, ethics, and a genuine concern for the welfare of the citizenry.

Impact and Legacy

The concept of the Seven Social Sins has had a significant impact on both individual and collective thought regarding ethics and morality. Gandhi’s adoption and dissemination of the list underscored his belief in a moral and ethical approach to personal life and governance. The list encourages reflection on the moral implications of one’s actions and the importance of integrating ethical considerations into all aspects of life.

See Also

• Ethics
• Morality
• Social responsibility