ABSTRACT
Sarvodaya shramadana movement (SSM) views economic activities in the context of harmonious interaction of the processes of nature, the human personality, the total society and knowledge. Ariyaratne claims that Sarvodaya Shramadana is a synthetic ideology, with possibilities of universal application. In the Sri Lankan context it had to draw its inspiration from the dominant Buddhist culture and philosophy to be easily understood by the people, most of whom are Buddhists. SSM has followed very closely the Buddha's analysis of the problems besetting man and his environment. The SSM bases its development philosophy on the individual as its main element, and expects to change perceptions and attitudes. Other Buddhist and Gandhian principles that have profoundly influenced SSM are truth, nonviolence and self-denial. The SSM team reports on the suitability of any follow-up work such as organising Shramadana camps, to awaken the villagers as well as to test their response and degree of active participation.
