SADVRITTA AND SOCIOLOGY: AN AYURVEDIC FRAMEWORK FOR ETHICAL LIVING IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL THEORY

Abstract

Modern societies are facing rising fragmentation and a decline in ethical values. Classical and contemporary sociological theories such as Durkheim’s social facts, Weber’s rationalization, Marx’s alienation, Bourdieu’s habitus, Foucault’s discipline, and Putnam’s social capital provide powerful explanations of social order and change, yet they rarely articulate proactive and systematic frameworks for individual ethical conduct .Ayurveda, through its principle of Sadvritta (righteous living), offers a holistic model that integrates personal behavior with community well-being. This study uses hermeneutic analysis of classical Ayurvedic texts, alongside comparative review of sociological theories, to examine the relevance of Sadvritta as a socio-ethical framework. By situating Sadvritta within the discourse of social practice, the paper highlights its potential to bridge gaps between individual responsibility and collective harmony. Implications for social policy, mental health, and sustainable living are discussed, positioning Sadvritta as a valuable resource for sociological thought and application.