“Intolerance betrays want of faith in one’s cause.”
- 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
“Intolerance betrays want of faith in one’s cause.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi argues that intolerance is a sign of weakness in one’s beliefs or cause. He suggests that when a person or group is unwilling to tolerate differing views or practices, it indicates a lack of confidence in the strength or validity of their own ideas. True conviction, according to Gandhi, does not need to silence opposition or suppress alternative perspectives through intolerance or violence. Rather, it thrives on the belief that one’s principles are strong enough to withstand scrutiny and that dialogue and debate are vital to understanding and advancing a cause. Intolerance, on the other hand, arises from a place of insecurity, where individuals or movements fear that their cause cannot stand up to challenge or criticism.
This perspective is highly relevant in today’s world, where intolerance often manifests in political polarization, religious extremism, or social divisions. Gandhi’s words encourage individuals and societies to embrace diversity and openness to differing ideas and ways of life. Instead of seeing differences as a threat, Gandhi advocates for the belief that faith in a cause should be strong enough to foster respect and understanding of others’ viewpoints, even when they disagree. In a modern context, this philosophy challenges the rise of authoritarianism or movements that seek to silence opposition, showing that the true strength of a cause lies in its ability to stand up to differing opinions without resorting to coercion or exclusion.
A contemporary example can be seen in the work of peacebuilders and conflict resolution advocates, who seek to resolve disputes through dialogue and mutual understanding rather than violence or intolerance. Organizations like The Elders, founded by figures like Nelson Mandela and Jimmy Carter, promote tolerance and peaceful negotiation in areas of conflict worldwide. Gandhi’s quote underscores the idea that tolerance is not just a moral virtue, but a practical approach to creating lasting peace and cooperation in diverse societies.
