TRADITIONALISM VS. MODERNISM
Before we actually begin this argument we must know the meanings of the words traditionalism and modernism. These are concepts difficult to define exactly, but examples will help one to grasp the meanings.
Tradition implies an established method or practice; a belief or custom passed on to us by our ancestors. Much of what we do today has its roots in the past, for example, the rites and customs followed in modern day weddings, things that are non-religious in character, such as throwing rice over the shoulder or a bride gently kicking a container of rice before entering her new house.
Modernism is the practice of following modern ideas or methods in contrast to the traditional ones. On the one hand, old, as it is said, is gold but on the other hand, the world has to move on. Hence there is a conflict between the traditional and the modern. What must be remembered however is that despite of our desire to be modern we can never do away with tradition completely and have to maintain a proper balance between the two.
If we stick too much to tradition, then we deny ourselves the opportunity for change. There is a lot in ancient customs that is not only meaningless but also harmful to the modern society. But we have to keep up with the changing times. Else we shall deprive ourselves of the opportunity for progress or development. Yet, we do need old ideas to inspire us.
Very often some good traditional practices are discarded. India is famous for its hospitality and the treatment of guests. But today no one has time to offer a visitor even a glass of water. To just get a cup of tea in someone’s home has become difficult these days.
We need to understand tradition, remove from it what is unwanted and retain what is good. Then only will our modern vision for a changed future be meaningful.
SHIVAM GHOLAP (D.M.E 1ST YEAR)
Before we actually begin this argument we must know the meanings of the words traditionalism and modernism. These are concepts difficult to define exactly, but examples will help one to grasp the meanings.
Tradition implies an established method or practice; a belief or custom passed on to us by our ancestors. Much of what we do today has its roots in the past, for example, the rites and customs followed in modern day weddings, things that are non-religious in character, such as throwing rice over the shoulder or a bride gently kicking a container of rice before entering her new house.
Modernism is the practice of following modern ideas or methods in contrast to the traditional ones. On the one hand, old, as it is said, is gold but on the other hand, the world has to move on. Hence there is a conflict between the traditional and the modern. What must be remembered however is that despite of our desire to be modern we can never do away with tradition completely and have to maintain a proper balance between the two.
If we stick too much to tradition, then we deny ourselves the opportunity for change. There is a lot in ancient customs that is not only meaningless but also harmful to the modern society. But we have to keep up with the changing times. Else we shall deprive ourselves of the opportunity for progress or development. Yet, we do need old ideas to inspire us.
Very often some good traditional practices are discarded. India is famous for its hospitality and the treatment of guests. But today no one has time to offer a visitor even a glass of water. To just get a cup of tea in someone’s home has become difficult these days.
We need to understand tradition, remove from it what is unwanted and retain what is good. Then only will our modern vision for a changed future be meaningful.
SHIVAM GHOLAP (D.M.E 1ST YEAR)