Final answer:
I agree with Naoroji's summary of British rule in India as it accurately highlights the moral, political, and material aspects of British rule. If Naoroji had been a peasant farmer, his criticisms might have focused more on the negative impacts on common people. The inclusion of the last two sentences in Naoroji's summary conveys his belief in the fairness and justice of the British people.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks whether I agree or disagree with Naoroji's summary of British rule in India and why or why not. Naoroji's summary states that morally, British rule was a great blessing, politically there was peace and order on one hand but blunders on the other, and materially India was impoverished. He compares the British rule to the knife of sugar, smooth and sweet but still a knife.
I would agree with Naoroji's summary of British rule in India. The claim that British rule was morally a great blessing is subjective and open to interpretation, as different individuals may have different views on this matter. Politically, while there may have been peace and order, the presence of blunders suggests incompetence on the part of the British administration. The economic impoverishment of India is supported by historical evidence, as British rule led to the exploitation of India's resources and the decline of indigenous industries.
If Naoroji had been a peasant farmer instead of an educated member of the middle class, his criticisms might have been different. As a peasant farmer, Naoroji would have directly experienced the negative impacts of British colonial policies on agriculture and land ownership. This personal experience could have shaped his criticisms to focus more on the detrimental effects of British rule on the lives and livelihoods of common people.
The inclusion of the last two sentences in Naoroji's summary is intended to convey his belief in the fairness and justice of the British people. He suggests that if the British truly understood the real needs of the Indian people, they would act justly and address those needs. Naoroji appeals to the underlying principle of fair play and justice that he believes is inherent in the British character.