Towards Principles and Values

In my last article, I suggested that ISKCON was entering a new and dynamic 'third phase' of development in which a systematic approach towards training and education would be an important characteristic.1 Since then, several education initiatives have progressed significantly.2Nevertheless, in some cases, they have aroused concern from some members of the Society for drawing on philosophies and practices from beyond the Vaisnava tradition. This essay will explore how one such discipline, quite conventional in secular education, relates to its Vedic3 counterpart. It seems under scrutiny that the two are not inconsistent. By amalgamating both we will produce a new model which will serve as a basis for further research and development. This model can also be used as a measure to examine where ISKCON stands in terms of its evolution in education. Evidence will be presented to suggest that formal education is perhaps the most important element in ISKCON's continuing social and theological development. In conclusion, some specific proposals will be put forward for the development of the Society.

In this study I will largely draw on my own experience, thus focusing primarily on adult education, though many conclusions will also be relevant to primary and secondary education (gurukula). This essay is also a response to 'Education and ISKCON' presented in the last issue of this journal by Sefton Davies.

Part 1
Knowledge, skills and values
Modern educationalists divide all that we learn into three broad categories:

Table 1

Comprehension of these three items are essential when establishing the aims and objectives for any learning process as the aims and objectives invariably fall within these three divisions. Furthermore, various learning methods are deemed more or less appropriate for each of these categories. Sefton Davies highlighted this in his last article,4 explaining the benefits of experiential learning for teaching skills. He also highlights the inordinate emphasis that ISKCON places on knowledge acquisition and the corresponding modes of teaching.

I have been using the knowledge, skills and values model for over three years, particularly in training other devotees as teachers. During this time I have personally become convinced of the value of this method. The response from my students was also very positive. Nevertheless, for some time I was feeling uneasy, on two accounts.

Firstly, I had little conclusive scriptural endorsement for my teaching practices, a point that contributed to some devotees questioning their validity.5 Secondly, as I attempted to gain a better understanding of my subject three important questions remained unanswered:

1. How do the three objectives rank chronologically? Is any one predominant at a specific stage within the learning process?6
2. Is there a hierarchy of importance among the three, and if so, what?
3. Where does the concept of 'understanding' fit in?7

Naturally, my colleagues and I had our own ideas, largely distilled from personal experience. In response to question (1) above, we surmised that knowledge-transmission was typically predominant at the start of any scheme of learning. Nevertheless, we were not sure about the respective positions of 'skills' and 'values'. Do they develop concurrently or one before the other?

Our response to the second question was less equivocal. We concluded that (within ISKCON at least) the category of 'values' achieves top priority. We identified scriptural examples to support our case-that the ultimate goal of education is to transform the nature of one's being or, in other words, to become Krishna conscious. This involves becoming humble, tolerant, compassionate and developing all the twenty-six qualities of a Vaishnava.8 A subsequent study of the first of 'The Seven Purposes of ISKCON', adopted at the Society's incorporation in 1966, appeared to endorse our conclusion that the whole thrust of ISKCON's education is to effect a change in values.9 The first of these purposes is 'To systematically propagate spiritual knowledge to society at large and to educate all people in the techniques of spiritual life in order to check the imbalance of values in life and to achieve real unity and peace in the world'. (Emphasis mine.)

 My observations were as follows:

1. Our three 'key words' are contained herein, 'skills' being replaced with 'techniques'.
2. Srila Prabhupada wishes our approach to be systematic-in other words, 'formal education'.
3. There is a tangible link between the Society's problems and any imbalance in values. This is relevant in that it supports the proposal that systematic training and education is one of the most important ways of constructively addressing ISKCON's internal, sociological issues.
4. The ultimate purpose of education is to transform people's values: that is what we value, which is so clearly connected to how we perceive the world. Whilst developing education programmes in ISKCON, many devotees considered that this was far more important for devotees (or religious people in general) than for others. Some, therefore, preferred the term 'character formation' in preference to 'values and attitudes'. It is also clear that the ultimate purpose of Vaishnava education is self-realisation. This has raised the issue (though I will not address it here directly) of whether or not 'character formation' is synonymous with self-realisation, or superfluous to it.

Evidence from the Vedic scripture
Despite these findings, we were far from a definitive understanding of the education process. Then my god-brother, Bhakti Vidya Purna Swami,10 kindly directed my research towards some interesting religious texts which shed some light on my research. According to the Brihadaranyaka Upanisad (2.4.5), there are three broad stages to any learning process. They are:

1. Sravana-hearing knowledge from the teacher
2. Manana-gaining an intellectual understanding by reflecting on what is learned.
3. Nidhidhyasana-realisation and application in one's life.

From this verse I deduced the following:

1. knowledge transmission is indeed the preliminary stage of education (as we had suspected)
2. understanding is part of a subsequent, second stage
3. skills and values appear to be relevant later on (expressed as 'application in one's life'11 and 'realisation' 12).

Nevertheless, it was still not clear as to whether stage two (manana or theoretical understanding) represents a progression from stage one in terms of skills or values (or a combination of the two). In other words, does knowledge transform into understanding through the acquisition of skills, the development of appropriate values or through the parallel evolution of both? Further insight was gained from a verse in the Nasadam,13 a Sanskrit poetical work, where Shriharsha delineates the following four stages of learning:

1. Adhiti-to learn a subject thoroughly
2. Bodha -to gain insight and proficiency in one's learning
3. Acarana-realising the purpose of, and living according to, our learning
4. Pracarana-giving this knowledge to others

It seems that the first three stages included in this verse from the Nasadam correspond to those listed in the verse from the Brihadaranyaka Upanisad. The fourth stage will not be discussed here, although it is obviously important and clearly distinguished from the other three.

From the verse in the Nasadam it became clear that the second stage, according to our developing Vedic model, not only encompasses an intellectual grasp of the subject, but the concomitant practical application of such an understanding. It seems that skills are learnt primarily at this second stage. Nevertheless, there is not full-realisation, nor have those skills become 'second-nature'. This only occurs in the final stage (when perfection is achieved), where the knowledge, understanding and skills become internalised, or part of oneself. In other words, the student or apprentice becomes an engineer, a carpenter or a teacher (or in Krishna conscious terms, a pure devotee). He lives and breathes his subject, easily and effortlessly. This suggests the platform of spontaneity. 14

Towards an integrated philosophy of education
It seems possible to conclude that this second stage of our Vedic model corresponds to skills and the third to values (which represents the ultimate goal of learning). By attempting to distinguish clearly between these two stages I have postulated that each of their outcomes correspond to 'conscious competence' and 'unconscious competence' respectively.15 In this process of learning knowledge is the predominant factor during the first stage. In the second stage skills are the most predominant factor and in the third stage, values are the most predominant. This model seems incomplete, since knowledge, skills and values cannot be neglected at any of the three stages. (See table 2.)

 In this model the three strands evolve in parallel throughout the whole process and become perfectly integrated during the third and final stage. Nevertheless, the explicit emphasis of teaching changes at each stage. To clarify, knowledge progresses from mere theoretical knowledge (conspicuous at the beginning of learning), through intellectual understanding, to culminate in full-realisation. Skills, latent in the beginning, form the focus of the second stage and subsequently become fully internalised. It is here, at this final stage that values take prominence, in the sense that knowledge and actions must be integrated into one's life, becoming perfectly congruent with self and desire.16 It is the stage of becoming exemplary in thought, word and deed, as expressed in the term acharana.

For each strand three key characteristics are required of the student. I have identified these from the Bhagavad-gita; they are namely inquiry, submission and service. 17 The entire model, shown in table 2, may provide ISKCON with a foundation for formulating a comprehensive philosophy of education, firmly rooted in the Vaisnava tradition and explicitly endorsed by scripture.

Table 2
The Three Phases of Learning in Terms of Knowledge, Skills and Values

Further research
There remains ample scope for further research particularly in scripture. Here are a few likely areas. The three terms 'knowledge', 'skills' and 'values' still beg precise definition.18 The Bhagavad-gita, particularly chapter eighteen, yields further information (especially verses 13-45). According to our initial definition, values relate to 'being'. This alludes to the self, which the Bhagavad-gita describes as the 'knower' and 'the doer'.19 Values therefore refers to the intrinsic nature of the self (however one conceives of it), suggesting that this final stage of learning is identical with 'the unfolding of the self', or realisation of one's sva-dharma.20 It also suggests desire, since what we value is largely determined by the nature of our desires. In fact, according to the Bhagavad-gita, our whole destiny rests upon the nature of our desire and the very purpose of the spiritual path is to purify the heart of its materialistic propensities.21

The other two terms, knowledge and action, cannot exist independent of the self. (The converse is also true-there is no existence of the self devoid of consciousness and activity.)22 There appears to be an ongoing reciprocation between the two, which, I conclude, the experiential learning cycle demonstrates.23 There are numerous other quotes in the Bhagavad-gita and other Vedic texts that demonstrate the various relationships between our three strands.24

The analysis of education in terms of knowledge, skills and values seems largely or wholly consistent with the Vedic model. Further, I would suggest that the Vedic version positively embellish our understanding of education and its ultimate purpose. Bhakti Vidya Purna Swami has written, 'The thrust of education, therefore, must be to develop character and philosophical realisation; external knowledge and expertise are in a supportive role'. 25

Part II

Here we will continue our exploration of the education procedure, including that which is considered more progressive. We will examine how it may be applicable within ISKCON and indeed, where it may be inappropriate. We will focus on aims and objectives and how they are delivered through a variety of teaching methods. Our conclusions will again be useful in helping us analyse where ISKCON currently stands and in formulating proposals for education development.

Aims and objectives
An essential feature in the design of any learning programme is the clear definition of aims. In my last article, I identified the pressing need to establish the concept of 'graduation from the training ashrams' (ashrams are the four vedic developmental divisions of the human life-cycle which are meant to elevate one to spiritual perfection). This would enable the Society to keep a focus on its main objective and to formulate clear aims in terms of its most important resource-its committed members. Without such formal education, there is no question of a deliberate and pro-active approach towards developing the Society, and the various categories of its membership. Shrila Prabhupada confirms the importance of setting aims, comparing a man without aims to a ship without a rudder.26

We will examine later how the Society's trainers are often unclear as to what constitutes their specific goals (although, quite ironically, often claiming that they are obvious and hence require no explicit delineation). We will return to this in Part Three. It is sufficient to mention here that there are two further stages in planning developed in response to the questions included below:

1. Aims-What do you, or your organisation, want to achieve, taking into account the learning needs of the students?
2. Objectives -What will students be able to do at the end of your lesson or course which will demonstrate that you are meeting your aims?
3. Assessment-How you will assess whether students are meeting their objectives (and hence whether you are successful in meeting your aims.)

These three steps are essential in planning and must be formulated sequentially. The tendency is to look over them and to consider content immediately, and I suspect that this is equally true for both devotees and non-devotees alike. The reader may reflect on his or her own preparation of a class or lecture. Most of us will:

1. identify topics related to our main subject and
2. determine what exciting learning experiences could be included

If we are more experienced, we may also initially pinpoint a theme that we intend to follow throughout. Even so, this approach remains relatively ineffective. Education experts term it as 'content-driven'. Teachers remain more concerned for what is taught rather than for why they are teaching in the first place. It is essential to have clearly focused aims without which we will undoubtedly run into difficulties, such as leaning excessively towards knowledge-transmission. This will result in the marginalisation of skills and values (though this is not to suggest that the transmission of information is unimportant). One of Sefton Davies' principal criticisms of ISKCON was that its education processes focuses on knowledge acquisition, as demonstrated by its predominant modes of teaching.

Let us now examine some of these different methods and the possible rationale behind them.

Teaching methods and styles
One aim of my training has been to broaden devotees' understanding of what constitutes effective teaching and in particular trying to introduce more interactive teaching methods. Most devotees have warmly welcomed these changes as reflecting a positive shift in values. Nevertheless (and quite understandably), these changes have not been without their critics. A parallel debate exists in the secular world between the advocates of traditional and progressive practices.

Sefton Davies highlights this dynamic, contrasting education which is primarily concerned with 'putting in,' based on telling and with that which is largely 'drawing out', based on asking. He writes, 'The extreme case of putting in is that of indoctrination, where an educator wishes to implant a fixed set of ideas and to exclude the possibility of contrary ideas being considered and accepted.' Here he indirectly addresses two issues:

1. The correlation between any society's education and its style of government (as a particular mode of education may well reflect the prevailing ethos within its leadership).
2. The dialectic between the needs for (a) authority (represented by the Society) and (b) exercise of free will (as expressed through the individual).

These are two essential points for ISKCON to consider and themes we will pick up later in the article.

Sefton Davies' statement implies that an education system favouring 'putting-in' may be rooted in the desire to preserve and perpetuate a fixed set of ideas. Ideological groups, including ISKCON, fall within this category. However, can they adopt progressive styles of education? Sefton Davies has personally shared with me his conviction that it is (almost) impossible. In other words, any organisation with a fixed doctrine is obliged to be prescriptive. His ideas are probably not without foundation. We may reasonably question how ISKCON teachers can afford to draw answers from students since some responses will inevitably be at variance with Gaudiya Vaishnava theology.

I will attempt to answer this question by relating an experience from my own school days. Mr Jones, my physics teacher, would regularly ask the class to conduct laboratory experiments. There was one in particular that I recall. Our task was to measure the effective weights of different objects immersed in water. We were then to plot a graph of two sets of readings and estimate a corresponding formula. On this day, I remember, I could not be bothered to finish the experiment and besides, I was a theorist anyway and believed that I already knew the correct answer. Therefore, I worked backwards, constructing the graph from the formula, and then dotting co-ordinates along its length. It was then easy to fill in the corresponding 'readings' and to gloat over my early finish.

I was naturally convinced of the accuracy of my 'experiment', but significantly less than if I had actually performed it! Nor was the teacher anticipating much of a variation in the results of his students. Why, then, did he have sufficient faith in his students (providing, of course, that they correctly followed the standard experimental procedure)? The answer seems to be clear: fundamental laws of nature cannot be contravened. Consequently, the events that such principles govern are entirely predictable. According to Vaishnava theology, such universal laws apply just as much to subtle phenomena (such as the mind and intelligence) as to gross physical elements (such as earth and water), to living beings as much as to dead matter.

This evidence suggests that student-based learning is appropriate when we are dealing with axiomatic or universal principles where we consider the subject to be a science rather than merely faith or belief. Conversely, such methods may not be suitable where the predominant beliefs, values and practices of a society or individual are incongruent with reality. Such ignorance can hardly flourish in an atmosphere of open and honest inquiry, but requires a healthy dose of unquestioning compliance, as is evident even in the scientific world, as well as the 'overtly' religious. We may therefore rightly suspect the integrity of any organisation or society, which restricts, explicitly or implicitly, the right of the individual to inquire openly.

 Another argument supporting a student-centred approach concerns the residing place of knowledge, which the Vedas consider to be locked within the heart.27 The process of teaching is to unlock that inherent wisdom. The procedure of 'drawing out' is consistent with this understanding and, if performed expertly, it will yield accurate and effective results.

My personal experience of teaching confirms this. If devotees observe their spiritual practices, then the facilitator, through nurturing honesty, introspection and self-expression, can usually evoke the 'right' answers from students themselves. Naturally, there are risks involved for anyone who dares teach in a more dynamic, student-centred way. It naturally puts an onus on the teacher to truly understand and realise the subject or to admit his inadequacies.28 In either case, it calls for depth of character and a willingness to take risks! Again, this suggests that teaching methods reflect not only the managerial or organisational ethos, as previously implied, but the values held by teachers themselves.29 This may further indicate that in borrowing methods of education from outside ISKCON, devotees must be careful not to adopt values which are inconsistent with their tradition.30

An analysis of experiential learning
Certainly, my own support for progressive education practice is not without qualification. For example, I often teach according to the experiential learning cycle as Sefton Davies outlined in his essay. See figure Figure 1.

From a Krishna conscious perspective, however, this process is to abstract not so much ideas as realisations. Therefore, to differentiate between factual and erroneous conclusions, student perceptions 31 must constantly be tested against scripture.32 This requires, in most cases, that students have some preliminary scriptural knowledge. In addition, the process of drawing out answers is dependent on the student having adequate experience of the subject. These two conclusions further imply that 'putting in' is more appropriate towards the beginning of any learning process, (at the stage of knowledge acquisition) whereas drawing-out is more suitable later on (when one tries to understand their realisations).

Figure 1

Similarly, there are other features of effective learning which predominate in the earlier and later stages respectively. These are shown below:

Table 3

 These two sets of criteria closely correspond to the traditional and progressive models. I propose that each is relevant, and each essential, at its respective stage.33 The progressive model may not be appropriate without students having passed through the earlier stage. Similarly, to maintain highly didactic methods for mature students may prove equally counter-productive.

The criteria listed above may again help us analyse ISKCON in its provision of education opportunities.

The importance of principles
Let us return to our examination of experiential learning. We have identified the need to speak of realisations rather than ideas. Further, it seems the whole thrust of experiential learning is to abstract not simply policies or guidelines, but primarily principles.34 This point needs to be emphasised because unless a social group understands the foundational principles behind its specific raison-d'�tre it will not be able to effectively respond to changing circumstances, nor preserve its tradition. Specifically, it must discern between context-relevant instructions (or temporary policies) and unchanging, axiomatic truths. Otherwise, it will commit one of two blunders:

1. taking account of, and reacting to, changing circumstances and public opinion, but losing grip on its core beliefs, values, mission and so forth, or,
2. sticking rigidly to externals, and to doctrine, often in the name of preventing mission-shift, but losing the real essence of that which needs to be preserved and perpetuated.

It is essential that ISKCON preserves its legacy, and in this training and education will play a vital role.

A further advantage of a principle-based approach (over one which simply defines practice and procedure) is that it legitimately accommodates diversity. It maintains and communicates clear standards by which to gauge a variety of practices. It does not promote a culture of rigid compliance and conformity, but one which values individuality and initiative (though within the bounds of the mission which defines its membership). Additionally, a principle-based approach will enable the mission to synthesise its conservative and radical features and avoid fragmentation into various opposing camps. The principles which form the bedrock of continuity are found within Shrila Prabhupada's books.35

The role of scripture
One may, however, question the need to use experiential learning at all. The Vedas are considered infallible. Why not just accept them-end of story? One danger to such a prescriptive approach, especially devoid of the opportunity to question, is that students fail to question not only the validity of scripture, but also their understanding of such sacred injunctions. Consequently, they may pretend to understand, or possess the prescribed levels of conviction. Lack of opportunity to clear away doubts subsequently impedes progress. This naturally involves a degree of self-deception. Leaders and teachers in such societies may be more concerned with belief and faith allegiance than an open exploration of truth. There may also be a preference for 'yes-men', an 'us and them' mind-set and a reliance on hype, slogans, and peer-pressure to support practices that are often carefully tended as sacred cows.

Therefore, we may conclude that an effective education system promotes understanding and realisation achieved by internalisation of knowledge derived from appropriate authority.

The basis of commitment
Our discussion raises another question: is commitment based on a full exploration of facts or a suspension of the critical faculties? In the eighteenth chapter of the Bhagavad-gita, Lord Krishna apparently supports the former option, favouring the well-informed decision. After instructing Arjuna for the best part of an hour, the Lord tells him, 'Thus I have explained to you knowledge more confidential. Deliberate on this fully, and then do what you wish to do.' Shrila Prabhupada further explains in his purport, 'Surrender to the Supreme Personality of Godhead is in the best interest of the living entities. It is not for the interest of the Supreme. Before surrendering, one is free to deliberate on this subject as far as the intelligence goes; that is the best way to accept the instructions of the Supreme Personality of Godhead.'36 This text not only endorses teaching methods which stimulate real understanding, but enrolment policies which acknowledge the free will and individuality of the student.

Assessment should precede each stage of commitment, so that the candidate can take full responsibility for his or her decision. Contrary procedure may lead to premature commitment, which not only causes later retractions, but may also result in bitterness towards the organisation that failed to meet unrealistic expectations. A society such as ISKCON has a responsibility to explain clearly to candidates their future prospects and any corresponding rights and responsibilities.

Any enrolment policy simultaneously requires the clear understanding of the specific purposes of that particular programme. Unfortunately, as we will see later, there are very few ISKCON initiatives with such clearly focused aims. In fact, until recently there has hardly been any formal education at all. In other words, the Society and its leaders have not yet recognised the benefits. Which leads to the obvious question-why not?

Leadership and values
Whatever the answer to this, it is clear that education does not take place within a vacuum. It requires not only endorsement but also the active and heartfelt support of the entire Society and particularly its leadership.

Values are determined not so much by what is spoken from the vyasasana (elevated seat for a teacher in class). Rather, they are largely moulded by social interactions, particularly through forms of reward and punishment (however subtle). Therefore, the prevalent leadership ethos will significantly determine the nature of a Society's education system. It is also the duty of leaders to ensure, through appropriate evaluation, that their organisation is on course for meeting its aims.

From my experience, I see striking parallels between the managerial and education processes. Secular management often recognises the importance of on-going training for its entire staff. Nevertheless, in these professional organisations, training is usually a matter of expediency in meeting financial goals. It is clear that ISKCON's very aims are education-based, as revealed through the first of its Seven Purposes. For this reason, the managerial function must serve the education processes, rather than vice versa. The following analysis of ISKCON and subsequent proposals are intended especially for consideration by the leaders of the Society.

Part III
So far, we have explored the learning process in terms of (1) knowledge, skills and values and (2) aims and objectives. We have also examined briefly some variety in teaching methods and identified the need for education to be principle-based and grounded in scripture. In so doing, we have identified criteria to help us ascertain how far and how effectively ISKCON's education has progressed and where there is further room for improvement.

This naturally involves identifying the Society's shortcomings: not in a mood of criticism but as an attempt to move realistically and constructively forward. Despite the challenges-and they are numerous-there are indications as I mentioned in my earlier article, that the movement is positively evolving as it enters 'Phase Three' of its development.

Identifying areas in need of improvement

Knowledge

(1) There is an over-emphasis on knowledge-acquisition
Four years ago, at a public function in Bristol, I was chatting to a lady who was a member of the congregation. She had recently attended one of my weekend courses on teacher training. I was encouraging her to try leading a local class. She, however, was hesitant. Finally, she revealed that she felt unqualified. 'I don't know enough slokas!' (verses from the scriptures), she admitted. I was astounded! Here was a middle-aged woman, a certified counsellor, who had successfully raised a family and demonstrated maturity in personal and professional circles. I was simultaneously bewildered and enlightened! I was convinced that the values prevalent in our temples were spilling over into the congregation. She had the necessary skills and the appropriate attitudes-yet considered the verses she could recite the primary qualification for representing the Society.

It would be interesting, if not revealing, to ask academics, media and faith leaders who have an interest in ISKCON what they expect of our members. I suspect that they would give greater emphasis to character and behaviour. We could also reflect on what our own tradition says about the respective priorities afforded to knowledge, skills and values.

(2) Education methods are almost entirely teacher-centred.
Within ISKCON temples, lecturing remains the prevalent mode of teaching. Devotees are reluctant to use other means, often doubting their validity. Some consider them non-traditional, or even heretical, citing our standard process of descending knowledge from guru to disciple.

Amongst some progressive non-devotee educators, lecturing is considered suitable for little more than knowledge-transmission. Conversely, within Vaishnavism, a morning class is a place of honour and cannot be equated with mere information-transfer. On this point, there seems to be a clear rift between non-devotee specialists and the tradition itself. I have noted that the morning Bhagavatam class does not take place in isolation. It is one part of an entire process, which has other highly experiential components. Lectures are delivered most effectively at the end of the 'morning programme.' The attendant spiritual practices, particularly the chanting of the names of Krishna on japa beads, enhance the consciousness, making the practitioner far more aware and receptive to hearing. During the lecture, an effective teacher will draw from life experience, speaking with direct realisation, which will powerfully transform the heart of the sincere listener. The devotee then carries forward what is learned into the day's service, meditating on the teacher's words. My own perception of this process is that even the lecture itself can be highly experiential, with the potency to transform values.

For formal temple situations, I am reluctant to suggest that devotees use radically different methods. Nevertheless, there is scriptural evidence for using such technique (as we have already examined). We have heard how realisation is one of the ultimate goals of education. Let us now examine how Shrila Prabhupada defines the word:

Personal realisation does not mean that one should, out of vanity, attempt to show one's own learning by trying to surpass the previous acharyas. He must have full confidence in the previous acharyas, and at the same time he must realise the subject matter so nicely that he can present the matter for the particular circumstances in a suitable manner. The original purpose of the text must be maintained. No obscure meaning should be screwed out of it, yet it should be presented in an interesting manner for the understanding of the audience. This is called realisation.

 This endorses the principle of adjusting one's presentation to suit the audience, and may indeed support the whole concept of progressive education technique. I suggest that devotees should seriously consider using progressive education techniques outside the context of a temple lecture.

(3) The Society has little promotional material beyond canonical literature.
Recently, my father asked me to bring, on behalf of a friend, some basic Krishna conscious literature. 'Nothing too fancy', he specified. I happily agreed, but subsequently felt quite embarrassed with what I could not find. There was no information on devotees and their personal stories; very little on the Society's cultural heritage; next-to-nothing on the opportunities it offers the public; and little with any pictures! However, there are stacks of books simply on doctrine, which, for most people, is quite inaccessible to the newcomer.

Although theology is of the utmost importance for ISKCON, many devotees now consider this insufficient on its own. They acutely feel the need to practically live and demonstrate their teachings, and to 'walk their talk'. For a society of our size and prominence, the lack of suitable literature reveals, again, an inordinate emphasis on knowledge alone and perhaps a reluctance to share ourselves with those outside the movement.

Skills

(4) Little importance is attached to skills training.
Lack of skills training is evident in several ways. I have often observed capable devotees performing relatively low-level tasks in comparison to their non-devotee counterparts. ISKCON may indeed have difficulty affording comparable training systems. What is becoming apparent, though, is the immense cost of not training members and the gross inefficiency of constantly re-inventing the wheel. Inadequate skills also become conspicuous in areas that determine public perception, such as our reception and telephone services. The whole issue of public credibility can be effectively measured in terms of skills and values, as these are reflected through conduct and behaviour. Skills and values can be constructively addressed through appropriate training schemes.

Another key issue is the lack of vocational training for the vast majority of residential devotees who eventually marry. The question often arises as to whether or not this is indeed the responsibility of the Society.

(5) There is little or no service assessment and insufficient accountability.
Sincerity is often considered the sole qualification for maintaining a position within the Society. Any attempt to assess devotees' performance as functionaries may be construed as an affront to their spiritual integrity. In temple leadership, the coups that sporadically tear down temple presidents may be rightly attributed to a lack of formalised evaluation. In the 1980s, initiating gurus were promoted to jet-set executives, simply because of their spiritual standing. They were equally expected to be knowledgeable on all aspects of life, whatever their factual experience, placing them under considerable pressure to perform according to such unrealistic expectations.37

A corollary of these phenomena has been the reluctance of temple devotees to engage the skills of congregational experts whose spiritual practices failed to meet temple standards.

In conclusion, material propensities and spiritual qualifications have been totally muddled. What is ironic here is the apparent emphasis on values, which does not bear up to scrutiny, as we will now see.

Values

(6) There is a lack of congruence between the theoretical knowledge and values that devotees demonstrate.
The early nineteen-eighties heralded the recognition of the disparity between devotees' theology and their corresponding practices. Shortcomings in values were reflected through poor, often shocking, personal conduct and a striking increase in social anomalies.

I have listed below some of the values that the Society seems to have nurtured in its members, perhaps unconsciously, and which are inconsistent with scripture:

(a) Short-term results have been rewarded more highly than long-term commitment.
Scripture emphasises the relative benefits of sreyas (ultimate good) over preyas (the immediate result). Despite this, new devotees who have contributed significantly towards fund-raising initiatives have often received far greater acclaim from leaders than older devotees who are no longer so financially productive. It is therefore questionable, from an education perspective, whether the appreciation a member receives is commensurate with his or her factual spiritual advancement (as it should be). One noticeable result has been that leadership often caters more effectively for its younger followers but faisl to maintain their commitment as these young followers mature.
(b) Devotees have favoured 'transcendence' in preference to 'mundane morality'.
In the early days devotees failed to appreciate the important and sustaining role of morality in the long, and often gruelling, journey towards transcendence. Self-realisation, or perception of the self as separate from the mind and body, was considered quite different from character development. These attitudes naturally mitigated the need for introspection and any deliberate assessment of one's personal values.
(c) External renunciation has been valued far more than integrity and personal responsibility.
The leaning towards artificial renunciation and consequent irresponsibility is particularly evident when studying the brahmacaris' (celibate students) often negative attitudes towards marriage. The grihasta ashram for married householders has often been equated, quite erroneously, with materialistic household life. The consequences for brahmacaris changing ashrams have been predictably disastrous.
(d) The prevalence of the 'welfare mentality'.
Devotees have often expected the Society to provide far more of their needs than it has been able and have eventually become disappointed. This raises the question of establishing mutual expectations, and the qualifications of the candidate for residential training, particularly in respect of their values. For example, some candidates may already possess desirable traits, such as honesty and cleanliness, whereas others are practically incorrigible even after training. Residential training, some suggest, should primarily be for more independent, thoughtful people who have a strong sense of vocation.
(e) Unquestioning allegiance has been given preference to thoughtful commitment.
Faith based on suspension of the critical faculties certainly results in a quick commitment, but usually not a lasting one.
(f) Spirituality is measured largely on the basis of external practices, rather than inner development.
Although strict adherence to sadhana is undeniably essential, there has been little open dialogue about personal issues and what is really going on within the devotee's heart.

(7) Scripture has been misused to endorse erroneous practices and their attendant values.
ISKCON has its share of emotionally charged words, which often embody unquestionable truths and values. For example, when a devotee is insensitive, he or she is invariably described as 'impersonal', with all its negative connotations.38 Other terms worthy of exploration include 'surrender', 'humble', 'independent' and 'motivated'. Although these terms are theologically significant, they may have been unconsciously misinterpreted for tendentious purposes, usually related to maintaining a high degree of hands-on control (such as for example, to keep the work-force enthusiastically active).

(8) Business (vaishya) values have been predominant.
Inappropriate values lie at the heart of many of the Society's challenges and may be the natural consequence of the leaders' emphasis on productivity, which itself has been moulded by circumstantial economic pressures, rather than as a direct fault of the management itself. Those with brahminical tendencies (who tend to be independently resourceful) have not always found appreciation or satisfying services within the Society. Many, after living initially in temples, have ultimately pursued more academic careers away from the Society.

(9) Discerning people have been reluctant to become closely involved.
Less-discerning residents have frightened away more intelligent candidates, namely those with higher values. Many temple residents became highly dependent on the institution for their material needs and failed to win respect from the professional classes. When teaching and questioned on subjects beyond their capacity, they often became defensive, attempting to maintain their own perceived superiority by borrowing strength, for example, from position or the length of time they have spent in the movement. Traditionally the temple and its residents are expected to be exemplary and such training should be reserved for men and women of the highest calibre.

Formal education

(10) There is little formulation of people-centred goals.
Members, according to their respective levels of commitment, constitute ISKCON's most valuable asset and yet cars, books and property have taken priority in setting goals. Material assets have been often been considered the means to secure followers, rather than vice-versa. This calls for a re-evaluation of the actual purposes of the Society.

(11) There is very little continuity and progression.
Many congregational members complain that they have been listening to the 'you are not this body' class for many years. Similar concerns are expressed by temple residents. Both education content and methodology lack continuity and progression. Teaching methods and styles are more suitable for newer members. The rationale behind this is that: (a) hearing is purifying anyway and (b) repetition is necessary, because we tend to repeatedly forget and fall into maya (illusion). This approach does not acknowledge and validate the intelligence of students, nor recognise the progress they will have inevitably made if education procedures are sound.

(12) There are few clearly delineated systems and structures for training.
Less than thirty per cent of all temples world-wide have an initial course for new-comers to temple life (bhakta / bhaktin courses), what to speak of more extensive developmental programmes. Intelligent people, who plan for the future, perceive few carefully formulated prospects for a lifetime of spiritual growth. For many devotees Krishna consciousness remains a distant dream rather than a goal towards which they are consistently and perceivably moving.

(13) No clear enrolment policies.
In most temples, the criteria for who is eligible to join remains a mystery and has thus been highly subjective (and hence subject to gross inaccuracy). Candidates, who may have been accepted to ensure that the pots are washed, often turn out to be quite unsuitable for ashram life.

(14) New devotees are considered manpower rather than students.
Temple departmental heads have sometimes resisted moves to introduce systematic training, fearing an initial loss of manpower. Ironically, formal training and education is ultimately intended (amongst other things) to equip temples with highly qualified staff. What is clear is that the Society has not considered education a priority. Fortunately, opinions are shifting; most notably amongst the leadership, indicating that ISKCON is indeed entering a new phase that is characterised by rapid strides in education.

Proposals
The following proposals will be of particular interest to ISKCON devotees, especially leaders, managers and educators. We need to:

(1) Clearly establish the vision, identity and function of all ISKCON temples, with specific emphasis on their primary role as education institutes.

(2) (a) Identify the different groups who have education needs. I have isolated four major categories namely:

(i) leaders and managers
(ii) residential devotees (i.e. students)
(iii) congregational members
(iv) common-interest groups39

(b) Establish specific purposes of training and education for each of these groups.
(c) For each group we establish paths of involvement, with aims and objectives for each stage of training in terms of knowledge, skills and understanding, and values.
(d) Each discipline within the Society establishes an education team that will formulate the principles upon which its development is based. These should largely come from Shrila Prabhupada's works. These principles will then be used to evaluate its training policies and practices.

(3) Corresponding enrolment policies should be established for all training courses and thereafter, scheduled periods of commitment and assessment.

(4) We publish appropriate advertising material which clearly differentiate between: (a) our theology (b) our understanding and experience of Krishna consciousness (c) the opportunities which ISKCON offers to individuals for interaction with the Society.

(5) Members who enter the Society for residential training do so with clear understanding of their future prospects. They should enter on a contractual basis with defined rights and responsibilities.

(6) All teachers and trainers will be trained and accredited, according to international standards.

(7) All managers should be trained, particularly to appreciate:

(a) the basic principles of leadership and management with regard to dividing society and training accordingly
(b) the value of supporting those with brahminical functions
(c) the importance of continually improving the organisational culture of the Society, and ensuring that its representatives are aligned with its mission.

(8) Strong links should be forged between managers and educators to implement all the above and to ensure that the management procedures serve the education purposes of the Society, and that the predominant values within the Society are brahminical. This means that leadership and management should be pro-active rather than reactive, responding to situations promptly and anticipating what may be required in the future.

Conclusions
Our discussion points to the need for a social system that is based on the universal principle of service to Lord Krishna, and yet accommodates all types of people with diverse values. This suggests that the predominant values of the Society must be brahminical, that is based on moral and ethical standards derived from scripture. Since intellectual and religious leadership is naturally concerned for the welfare of others, they base their decisions on principles, rather than on political, economic or sensual expediency. We have noted how any society's problems are rooted in an imbalance of values. Our system must be one that can redress its imbalance of values and address spiritual challenges-this I believe will come principally through the education forum. In addition, a principle-based education system may be the most effective arena for addressing ISKCON's current social challenges. Furthermore, the suggestions outlined in this discussion may provide a useful tool for delivering such remedial measures. If the managerial and education leaders can co-operate to introduce systematic training and education based on the principles found in Srila Prabhupada's writings, then everything else will naturally follow.