Meaning: This quote by B. Ambedkar, a prominent Indian politician and social reformer, reflects the perennial struggle between ethics and economics in various spheres of human society. In this context, Ambedkar underscores the prevailing dominance of economics over ethical considerations when the two are at odds. He implies that economic interests, often represented by vested interests, tend to prevail over ethical considerations unless there is a compelling force to counteract them.

Throughout history, the conflict between ethics and economics has manifested in numerous ways, from labor rights and environmental protection to business practices and social justice. In many instances, economic considerations have outweighed ethical concerns, leading to exploitation, inequality, and environmental degradation.

Ambedkar's observation about the victory of economics over ethics is particularly relevant in the context of vested interests, which are individuals or groups with a significant stake in maintaining the status quo for their own benefit. These interests often exert influence and power to safeguard their economic advantages, sometimes at the expense of ethical principles and the greater good.

The quote also suggests that the relinquishment of vested interests, or the voluntary divestment of economic power in favor of ethical considerations, is a rare occurrence. Ambedkar's assertion implies that vested interests are unlikely to give up their economic advantages willingly unless compelled to do so by external forces, such as regulation, public pressure, or legal action.

Ambedkar's viewpoint on the conflict between ethics and economics reflects a critical understanding of power dynamics within society. It acknowledges that economic interests, often driven by the pursuit of profit and self-preservation, can overshadow ethical considerations and moral obligations. This observation aligns with the broader discourse on the role of power, privilege, and inequality in shaping social and economic structures.

While the quote emphasizes the prevailing influence of economics over ethics, it also implies the potential for change through the application of sufficient force to compel vested interests to divest themselves. This force could take the form of regulatory measures, grassroots movements, advocacy for policy reform, or legal interventions aimed at curbing the unchecked power of economic interests and promoting ethical considerations.

In contemporary society, the tension between ethics and economics remains a pertinent issue in various domains, including corporate governance, environmental sustainability, and social justice. The quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to balance economic imperatives with ethical responsibilities, and it underscores the need for vigilance and collective action to address the dominance of vested interests and prioritize ethical considerations in decision-making processes.

In conclusion, B. Ambedkar's quote encapsulates the enduring conflict between ethics and economics, highlighting the prevailing victory of economics over ethical considerations in the face of vested interests. This observation invites critical reflection on the power dynamics at play within society and the imperative to compel change in favor of ethical principles and the common good. It underscores the ongoing struggle to mitigate the influence of economic interests and uphold ethical standards in various spheres of human activity.