“I will far rather see the race of man extinct than that we should become less than beasts by making the noblest of God’s creation, woman, the object of our lust.”
- 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 will far rather see the race of man extinct than that we should become less than beasts by making the noblest of God’s creation, woman, the object of our lust.”
Explanation
In this powerful quote, Mahatma Gandhi expresses a profound moral stance on the dignity of women and the abhorrence of sexual exploitation. Gandhi asserts that reducing women to mere objects of lust is not only a moral failure but also a degradation of humanity itself. By referring to woman as “the noblest of God’s creation,” he highlights the reverence and respect that should be afforded to women, acknowledging their inherent dignity and value as equal, if not superior, to men in their role as caretakers of life, culture, and society. Gandhi rejects any notion that objectifies women for sexual gratification, framing it as a moral evil that would be worse than the extinction of mankind itself. His words reflect his broader philosophy of ahimsa (nonviolence) and satyagraha (truth-force), where he condemned all forms of exploitation and oppression, particularly those rooted in gender inequality.
Gandhi’s perspective on this issue is deeply intertwined with his belief in the spiritual equality of all human beings. He argued that true humanity is demonstrated by how individuals treat each other, especially those who are more vulnerable or marginalized. His criticism of sexual exploitation and gender inequality was not just about societal or legal reform but was rooted in the spiritual belief that humanity is morally obligated to uplift and respect women as equals, not to dominate or objectify them. This reflects Gandhi’s broader views on social justice and human rights, which emphasized the empowerment of all individuals, especially those who have historically been oppressed. His commitment to the upliftment of women was evident in his own life, where he advocated for women’s education, self-reliance, and freedom from social subjugation.
In today’s world, this quote resonates as a strong condemnation of gender-based violence and sexual exploitation, which continue to plague societies across the globe. Gandhi’s words challenge the objectification of women in contemporary media, advertising, and even everyday culture, urging us to treat women with the respect and dignity they deserve. His call to reject the commodification of women is more relevant than ever, especially as movements for gender equality and the eradication of sexual violence gain momentum worldwide. Gandhi’s belief that respect for women is a cornerstone of human civilization serves as both a moral imperative and a call to action for a world in which all individuals, regardless of gender, can live with dignity, equality, and respect.
