Enterprise, Education And Eudaemonia

A good society needs vigorous enterprise, which can generate resources to promote administrative order. In this manner, citizens can enjoy education, health and a sense of well-being

- R Gopalakrishnan

I am delighted to begin this monthly column titled “Building Businesses”. In this article, I hope to engage with readers on Entrepreneurship, Education and Eudaemonia—Greek for well-being, all of which are highly relevant for the progress of India. Why so?

From the earliest days since Aristotle and Kautilya, philosophers have lauded the crucial role of business in building a happy, prosperous society. Indians have inherited a rich business tradition, which has been excellently documented: for example, Chettiars of Tamil Nadu, Moplahs of Kerala in South, Marwaris of Rajasthan, Kutchis of Saurashtra and Sindhis, who are everywhere. Traditions of business are a part of local folklore all over the country.

Business generates profit; after tax payment, this results in merchant charity through community support—temples, wells, hospitals, schools, fine arts and support to advance entrepreneurship. In this way, enterprise enables education, culture and health. Together, these three are the ingredients of human wellbeing and a happy society—what the Greeks had called eudaemonia. Stated another way, a good society needs vigorous enterprise, which can generate resources to promote administrative order. In this manner, citizens can enjoy education, health, cultural advancement and a sense of well-being.