“I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.”
- October 2, 1869 – January 30, 1948
- British Indian Empire
- Lawyer, religious leader, social activist, political leader
- As a leader of the Indian independence movement, he advocated non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) and contributed to India’s independence from Britain.
Quote
“I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi firmly rejects the use of violence as a means of achieving any goal, even if that goal seems noble or just. He points out that the immediate benefits of violence may seem to result in positive change, but the long-term consequences are invariably harmful. Violence, in Gandhi’s view, does not lead to lasting peace or justice; instead, it creates cycles of revenge and hatred that continue to damage individuals and societies. His philosophy of nonviolence (ahimsa) taught that the true path to change is one that upholds the dignity and well-being of all people, rather than resorting to destruction or harm, no matter how justified it may seem at the time.
This insight is just as pertinent in modern times, where violence is often used as a tool in political conflicts, wars, and even personal disputes. While violent actions may seem to bring short-term victories, the long-term effects often lead to social instability, psychological trauma, and a deepening of animosity. For instance, many conflicts around the world, such as those in Syria or Ukraine, demonstrate how violence, even when justified by one side, can perpetuate suffering for generations, rather than bringing lasting peace.
An example of Gandhi’s principles can be seen in civil rights movements, such as those led by Martin Luther King Jr. in the United States. King, inspired by Gandhi’s ideas, championed nonviolent resistance to fight racial injustice. He believed that while violence might bring immediate change, only nonviolent action could produce lasting, moral victories that would heal divisions and build a more just society. Gandhi’s teaching reminds us that true change, grounded in nonviolence, seeks to eradicate the root causes of conflict rather than merely addressing the symptoms.
