Mahatma Gandhi

Definition

Mahatma Gandhi was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement against British rule, known for his philosophy of non-violent resistance or 'Satyagraha.' His teachings emphasized the ethical implications of karma theory, advocating that one's actions directly influence their future circumstances and the well-being of society as a whole.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gandhi believed that individuals have the power to shape their destinies through their actions, aligning closely with the principles of karma theory.
2. He advocated for the importance of ethical living and self-discipline, promoting personal responsibility as key to societal change.
3. Gandhi's philosophy emphasized the interconnectedness of all beings, suggesting that harming others ultimately harms oneself.
4. His campaigns for civil rights and independence were rooted in the belief that non-violence was more powerful than violent revolution.
5. Gandhi inspired various global movements for civil rights and freedom, influencing leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.

Review Questions

• How did Gandhi's understanding of karma influence his approach to social and political activism?
  • Gandhi viewed karma as a guiding principle that shaped not only individual lives but also society as a whole. He believed that by engaging in ethical actions and non-violent resistance, individuals could create positive change in their communities and ultimately influence the course of history. His activism was rooted in the conviction that each action carries moral weight, reinforcing his commitment to non-violence and social justice.
• Evaluate the significance of Ahimsa in Gandhi's philosophy and its impact on his methods of resistance.
  • Ahimsa, or non-violence, was central to Gandhi's philosophy and served as the foundation for his methods of resistance against British rule. By promoting peaceful protests and civil disobedience, he demonstrated that ethical conduct could lead to meaningful political change. This principle not only galvanized support for India's independence but also established a moral framework that inspired numerous global movements advocating for civil rights and justice.
• Analyze how Gandhi's concept of Satyagraha reflects the ethical implications of karma theory in a broader societal context.
  • Gandhi's concept of Satyagraha embodies the ethical implications of karma theory by emphasizing that individual actions can collectively transform society. He believed that through persistent non-violent resistance rooted in truth, people could influence their karma and that of the community. This approach highlighted how ethical actions could lead to liberation from oppression, reinforcing the interconnectedness of human experiences and demonstrating how personal responsibility can catalyze societal progress.

Related terms

Satyagraha: A form of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience developed by Gandhi to bring about social and political change.

Ahimsa: The principle of non-violence towards all living beings, which is foundational to Gandhi's philosophy and approach to social justice.

Karma:

The law of moral cause and effect, where one's actions (good or bad) influence their future experiences and fate.