Meliorism: The World Can Be Made Better Through Human Effort
Dr Santosh Kumar Mohapatra, Cuttack
Meliorism is the belief that the world is neither hopelessly bad nor perfectly good, but capable of improvement through conscious human effort. It teaches us that progress is not automatic; it depends on our actions, our moral strength, and our willingness to act with responsibility.
The term comes from the Latin word melior, meaning “better.” The idea is closely associated with the philosopher William James, who believed that human beings are active participants in shaping their destiny. According to this view, the future is not fixed. It is open, and it can be improved by courage, compassion, and collective effort.
Meliorism stands between optimism and pessimism. Unlike blind optimism, it does not assume that everything will naturally turn out well. Unlike pessimism, it does not surrender to despair. Instead, it calls for thoughtful action. It insists that injustice, inequality, and corruption can be reduced if people of conscience rise and work sincerely.
In today’s society, where power often overshadows truth and wealth influences decisions, meliorism becomes a moral necessity. It reminds us that silence strengthens injustice, while effort—however small—creates change. Every responsible action, every honest voice, and every compassionate decision contributes to building a more just and humane society.
Thus, meliorism is not merely a philosophy; it is a call to action. The world improves not by waiting, but by doing.
Meliorism//The World Can Be Made Better Through Human Effort -Dr Santosh Kumar Mohapatra, Cuttack
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