International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Economic Order Determined by Social Necessities and Removal of Inequalities: Gandhi’s Philosophy of Trusteeship

The philosophy of trusteeship as propounded by Mahatma Gandhi represents a unique synthesis of spiritual idealism and practical economics, offering an alternative paradigm to both capitalism and socialism. This paper examines Gandhi’s trusteeship doctrine as a comprehensive framework for establishing an economic order that prioritizes social necessities while systematically addressing economic inequalities. Through analysis of primary sources from Gandhi’s collected works and contemporary academic scholarship, this study demonstrates how trusteeship embodies a pragmatic model of development rooted in non-violence, moral responsibility and equitable distribution of resources. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of Gandhi’s trusteeship philosophy, examining its theoretical foundations, practical implications and potential contributions to addressing contemporary challenges of persistent economic disparities and in promoting sustainable development. The findings suggest that Gandhi’s trusteeship philosophy provides valuable insights for creating an inclusive economic system that balances individual prosperity with collective welfare, offering a pathway toward economic justice that remains remarkably relevant in today’s world.