“Measures must always in a progressive society be held superior to men, who are after all imperfect instruments, working for their fulfilment.”
- 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
“Measures must always in a progressive society be held superior to men, who are after all imperfect instruments, working for their fulfilment.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi emphasizes that the effectiveness of societal measures or systems must take precedence over individual leaders. He acknowledges that people are imperfect and may fail in their duties or moral obligations. However, a well-designed system, when adhered to, can guide society toward progress, irrespective of human limitations. Gandhi was deeply involved in India’s struggle for independence, advocating for non-violent resistance and social reforms. His belief in the moral superiority of collective measures over individual authority reflected his commitment to a society governed by law and principle, not by individuals.
This notion remains highly relevant in modern times, especially in contexts where leadership failures or corruption can undermine societal progress. In many democratic societies today, discussions often arise about whether laws and systems, such as those that ensure social justice and economic fairness, should override the actions of leaders, particularly when their intentions or actions do not align with the greater good. Gandhi’s perspective serves as a reminder that systems designed for equality and human rights should be prioritized over the errors of individuals, who are fallible by nature.
A modern example could be seen in debates around climate change policy. Even when political leaders fail to act decisively, movements and international agreements like the Paris Agreement reflect an overarching societal measure aimed at addressing global issues. Gandhi’s wisdom encourages us to rely on such institutional measures, trusting that they will continue to drive progress despite the flaws of any single actor.
