Prout is short for the Progressive Utilization Theory. Formulated in 1959 by Indian socio-spiritual initiator P.R. Sarkar. Prout advocates economic liberation for all as a panacea for economic liberalism and materialist socialism. The theory is not concerned solely with economics but takes into view the entirety of human individual and collective existence - physical, educational, social, political, mental, cultural and spiritual. Prout presents a comprehensive paradigm of integrated growth. Its cardinal values are those of neo-humanism, which takes into consideration the good and happiness of all living beings; plants, animals and humans.

Sarkar and many after him has contibuted to a rich Prout literature of ideas and concepts, analysis and synthesis of human socio-economic potential, with numerous concrete solutions for balanced development in all spheres of life. Some of that literature is presented here on ProutWorld.