[a] Philosophical Foundations of Gandhi’s Political Perspective
Mahatma Gandhi’s (1869–1948) political philosophy was deeply rooted in ethical and moral principles rather than mere political strategy. His ideas were influenced by Hinduism, Jainism, Christianity, and Western thinkers like Leo Tolstoy and Henry David Thoreau. He emphasized non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), self-rule (swaraj), and civil disobedience (satyagraha) as the key pillars of his approach to politics.
Ahimsa (Non-Violence) as a Moral and Political Principle
For Gandhi, non-violence was not just the absence of physical violence but a complete rejection of hatred and harm in thought, word, and deed. He believed that true power lay in the ability to resist injustice without resorting to aggression. Ahimsa guided his approach to India’s freedom struggle, inspiring peaceful resistance movements such as the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22) and the Quit India Movement (1942).
- Non-Violent Resistance: Gandhi believed that oppressors could be defeated not by force but by the moral strength of the oppressed.
- Influence of Jain and Buddhist Teachings: Jainism’s strict non-violence philosophy shaped Gandhi’s insistence on peaceful protest.
Satyagraha (Truth and Civil Disobedience)
Gandhi introduced satyagraha—a unique form of protest based on the power of truth and moral force. It aimed to convert the oppressor through patience and self-sacrifice, rather than hostility.
- Inspired by Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience: Gandhi adapted the concept of non-violent resistance to unjust laws, first applying it in South Africa against racial discrimination.
- Applied in India: Satyagraha became the foundation of major movements, including the Salt March (1930), where thousands defied British salt laws peacefully.
Swaraj (Self-Rule) and Decentralization
Gandhi’s concept of swaraj (self-rule) extended beyond political independence. He envisioned a decentralized democracy where villages were self-sufficient and individuals were empowered.
- Gram Swaraj (Village Republics): He wanted India’s governance to be rooted in local self-rule rather than centralized authority.
- Self-Sufficiency (Swadeshi Movement): He promoted indigenous industries, especially khadi (hand-spun cloth), to make India economically independent.
Religious Harmony and Social Reforms
Gandhi believed that religion should unite, not divide, people. He advocated for Hindu-Muslim unity, opposed untouchability, and promoted the upliftment of Dalits (Harijans).
- Sarva Dharma Sambhava: He respected all religions and opposed communal hatred.
- Abolition of Untouchability: Gandhi fought against caste discrimination and established the Harijan Sevak Sangh to support Dalits.
Conclusion
Gandhi’s political philosophy combined ethics with activism, emphasizing non-violence, self-rule, truth, and inclusive governance. His methods influenced not only India’s freedom movement but also global struggles for civil rights, including those led by Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.
[b] Jawaharlal Nehru’s Scientific Humanism
Jawaharlal Nehru (1889–1964) was a modernist thinker who shaped independent India’s policies based on rationality, scientific inquiry, and human progress. Unlike Gandhi, who emphasized spirituality and moral philosophy, Nehru championed scientific humanism, advocating for modernization, democracy, and economic development.
Scientific Temper and Rationalism
Nehru believed that scientific thinking should replace superstition and blind faith. He saw technology and education as essential for nation-building.
- Science as a Tool for Progress: He believed scientific advancements could eradicate poverty and social backwardness.
- Education Reforms: He established institutions like IITs, AIIMS, and ISRO to foster a scientific mindset.
Democratic Socialism and Economic Planning
Nehru’s humanism was closely linked to socialism, but he rejected violent revolutions. Instead, he implemented a mixed economy, combining state-led industrialization with private enterprise.
- Five-Year Plans: Modeled on socialist planning, these focused on industrial growth and self-reliance.
- Public Sector Development: Industries like steel, power, and space research were nationalized to ensure equitable economic growth.
Secularism and Universal Brotherhood
Nehru viewed secularism as key to social harmony, advocating for religious tolerance and state neutrality. He also promoted global peace and cooperation through Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
Conclusion
Nehru’s scientific humanism combined rationality, economic planning, and democratic socialism, laying the foundations of modern India. His vision of progressive governance, technological advancement, and secular democracy continues to shape Indian policies today.
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