THE ROOTS OF ECONOMIC DISPARITY AND POVERTY

Abstract

Being is that which is In some way. That which is in someway is indeterminate. That which is indeterminate is that which is not. That which is not is non-being. Hence non-being is at the 'heart' of Being. Being already implies non-beinql In this way with Hegel we mayhold that thereis negation and contradiction in everything. This contradiction manifests itself in the story of mankind which is a story of manydichotomiesand contradictions betweencertain proclaimed values and impotent infrastructures. The French Revolution and the Indian Constitution reflect them. Some of -the important proclaimed values of them are democracy, freedom and equality, which are essential conditions for people's development marked by opportunities for choices. The opportunities for choices presuppose democracywhich is the ability of the individual to participate actively in the decision-making process. This decision-making processcalls for freedom, which is autonomy for self-realization and creatlvltvThe primary condition of freedom is survival, which includes protection against violence and destruction of property and environment. This freedom is the foundation of equality which is the preservation and enhancementof the dignity of all, the liberation from economic deprivation and misery, and thus justice and human solidarity.