Thought or Theory? A Brief Analysis of the Philosophical Significance of the Suffix '-Ism'

Introduction

While we celebrate the icons who fought for social liberation, there is a prevailing confusion regarding how we categorize their ideas. Specifically, it is essential to understand the fundamental philosophical distinction between a theory like Marxism and the thoughts of leaders like Periyar and Ambedkar.

The Criteria for an '-Ism' (Theory)

When does a concept reach the status of a 'Theory' or an '-Ism'?

• Merely identifying a problem does not constitute a theory.

• It must present a systematic methodology (Process) as a philosophical formula to solve that problem.

• For a concept to be called an '-Ism', it must not only explain a social issue but also propose a theoretical framework and a law of motion for social transformation.

Marxism presents class struggle and the resulting social change as a historical and dialectical law. This is why it attains the status of an '-Ism.'

Periyar & Ambedkar: The Goal vs. The Methodology

Periyar and Ambedkar ardently desired the annihilation of caste and fought for it. They presented powerful socio-political critiques and proposals against the caste system. However, many argue that, unlike Marxism, their ideas were not synthesized into a complete law of social movement. 

The annihilation of caste was put forward as a desire and an ideal, but it was never transformed into a systematically structured theory. To label a concept as an '-Ism' when it lacks a defined methodology becomes inherently inappropriate.

Followers of a Path or Adherents of an '-Ism'?

It is accurate for followers of Marxism to call themselves 'Marxists' because they adhere to a specific theoretical law. However, calling the followers of Periyar and Ambedkar 'Periyarists' or 'Ambedkarists' is philosophically inappropriate. It is more accurate to call them "Thinkers in the path of Periyar" or "Followers of Ambedkar’s way." This is because they follow the thoughts of an individual rather than a defined, universal theory.

An Unequal Comparison

By using terms like 'Periyarism' or 'Ambedkarism,' these ideas appear equivalent to a comprehensive philosophy like Marxism. This risks blurring the distinction between theoretical frameworks and social reformist thoughts. It also gives an unearned 'theoretical' appearance to what are essentially social thoughts.

Conclusion

The annihilation of caste remains an ongoing quest. The task of developing it into a formal philosophy has not yet been achieved. Therefore, it is a mark of wisdom to distinguish between social thoughts and philosophical theories, and to refrain from confusing thoughts with comprehensive theories.

Hooraan