“Interdependence is and ought to be as much the ideal of man as self-sufficiency. Man is a social being.”
- 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
“Interdependence is and ought to be as much the ideal of man as self-sufficiency. Man is a social being.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi emphasizes the balance between interdependence and self-sufficiency. While self-sufficiency is often celebrated as an ideal, Gandhi argues that interdependence—the mutual reliance of individuals on each other—is equally essential. He underscores the idea that humans are inherently social beings, and that our lives and actions are intertwined with those of others. The interconnectedness of people, communities, and nations is not only a reality but also a moral ideal that should guide human relations.
Gandhi’s view of interdependence is rooted in his understanding of Ahimsa (nonviolence) and Sarvodaya (the welfare of all). He believed that true social progress could only be achieved when individuals recognized their dependence on one another. This vision influenced his ideas about community living, cooperative labor, and the importance of working together for the common good. He applied this philosophy in his campaigns for Indian independence, where the idea of collective action—with each person contributing to the welfare of the whole—was central. For Gandhi, the strength of a nation lies not in isolated individualism, but in cooperation and shared responsibility.
In the modern world, this quote speaks to the need for collaboration in addressing global issues such as climate change, poverty, and social inequality. While self-sufficiency can empower individuals and communities, true progress is achieved when people work together, recognizing that no one exists in isolation. The notion of interdependence calls for a collective approach to solving problems, where mutual respect, shared resources, and solidarity become central to human interaction. This is especially relevant in an age of globalization, where the actions of one country or community can have far-reaching effects on the rest of the world. Gandhi’s idea encourages us to look beyond self-interest and embrace a vision of common humanity.
