Introduction
Structural violence refers to systematic and institutional forms of harm that prevent individuals or groups from meeting their basic needs or living with dignity. It includes poverty, discrimination, unequal access to education or healthcare, and political marginalization. Mahatma Gandhi, although he did not use the term “structural violence,” addressed its core issues throughout his life. His philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa), social justice, and empowerment was aimed at dismantling the systems that perpetuate such harm. This post explores Gandhi’s views and methods for preventing structural violence and promoting a more just and equitable society.
Understanding Structural Violence
Coined by sociologist Johan Galtung, structural violence is the invisible harm caused by unjust systems. Unlike direct violence (such as war or assault), structural violence is embedded in social, political, and economic structures. For example, when people are denied education, jobs, or healthcare due to their caste, gender, or poverty, they suffer from structural violence.
Gandhi’s Awareness of Systemic Injustice
Gandhi was deeply aware of the social hierarchies and systemic injustices in Indian society, such as caste discrimination, economic inequality, and colonial exploitation. He understood that violence was not limited to physical force—it also existed in the silent suffering of the poor, the untouchables, and the marginalized. His entire philosophy aimed at transforming these oppressive structures through non-violent means.
Key Principles Gandhi Advocated to Prevent Structural Violence
1. Sarvodaya – Welfare of All
Gandhi’s vision of Sarvodaya or “welfare of all” was rooted in the idea that society must be organized in a way that benefits everyone, especially the weakest. This principle opposes structures that privilege the rich or powerful while marginalizing others.
2. Trusteeship
To address economic inequality, Gandhi proposed the idea of trusteeship, where wealthy individuals act as caretakers of their wealth for the benefit of society. He rejected class conflict and instead promoted moral responsibility among the rich to use their resources for social upliftment, thus reducing economic structures that breed violence.
3. Removal of Untouchability
Gandhi’s campaign against untouchability was a direct effort to challenge caste-based structural violence. He believed in the complete integration of Dalits (Harijans) into society with equal rights, dignity, and opportunities.
4. Economic Self-Reliance
Gandhi encouraged village self-sufficiency and local economies as a means to empower communities. By promoting khadi, village industries, and decentralized production, he aimed to create an economic structure that did not exploit the poor or make them dependent on external forces.
5. Education for Empowerment
Through his concept of basic education (Nai Talim), Gandhi emphasized practical, moral, and inclusive education. He believed that education should equip individuals to think critically and live independently, thereby breaking cycles of oppression and marginalization.
Gandhi’s Methods of Resistance
Gandhi’s tool of Satyagraha (truth-force) was used not just against colonialism, but also to confront social injustices. Peaceful protests, civil disobedience, and constructive work were all part of his strategy to expose and dismantle unjust systems non-violently.
Spiritual and Ethical Foundation
For Gandhi, preventing structural violence was not only a political goal but a moral duty. He believed that each individual had the responsibility to live ethically and act in ways that uplift others. Structural change, in his view, began with personal transformation—what he called “becoming the change you wish to see in the world.”
Relevance Today
Gandhi’s approach to addressing structural violence is highly relevant in modern times. Issues like economic disparity, racial injustice, gender inequality, and environmental degradation are all forms of structural violence. Gandhi’s methods—grounded in non-violence, moral responsibility, and grassroots empowerment—offer a powerful framework for addressing these global challenges.
Conclusion
Mahatma Gandhi’s life and teachings offer profound insights into preventing structural violence. Through his emphasis on non-violence, social justice, and inclusive development, he showed that deep-rooted change can be achieved without hatred or bloodshed. Gandhi’s vision of a society based on equality, compassion, and moral integrity continues to inspire movements for justice around the world.