Creating socially responsible systems for holistic development

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to attempt to highlight the importance of Gandhi's philosophy for creating socially responsible systems for holistic development.Design/methodology/approachIt is a qualitative analysis of Gandhi's writings and interpretation of his ideas for the creation of socially responsible systems which will result in holistic development.FindingsThe analysis of Gandhian philosophy brings about a realization that focusing on unidimensional development is detrimental to society. There is a need to integrate various elements of human civilization for the overall happiness of mankind. Gandhi identified the inter‐linkages between various aspects of human life and insisted on creating harmony between them. The authors find that he was against compartmentalization of self and society. Hence, the paper talks about holistic management and the role that organization, social systems and individuals can play in its achievement. His philosophy provides a backdrop against which socially responsible systems can be created.Originality/valueThough Gandhi's contribution in politics has been widely acknowledged, there is very little work on integration of his philosophy to all walks of life. The paper is original in the sense that instead of dividing his philosophy into narrow segments, it tries to establish the inter‐linkage between the various dimensions of human life.