“Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment and the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent than the one derived from fear of punishment.”
- 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.
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Quote
“Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment and the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent than the one derived from fear of punishment.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi contrasts two forms of power: one rooted in fear and coercion, and the other grounded in love and compassion. He argues that power based on fear—the type used by oppressive regimes or individuals seeking control through intimidation—might be temporary and superficial. It relies on the threat of punishment to maintain authority, and thus is fragile, easily disrupted by resistance or changing circumstances. On the other hand, power based on love is a deeper and more enduring form of influence. It works through mutual respect, empathy, and selflessness, creating genuine connections that inspire voluntary cooperation and lasting change. Gandhi believed that love, as a form of nonviolent power (ahimsa), has the capacity to transform not only individual hearts but also entire societies, making it far more effective and sustainable than fear-based domination.
This idea is especially significant in the context of political movements and social change. Gandhi’s own campaigns of civil disobedience and nonviolent resistance were built on the premise that love and nonviolence could dismantle oppressive systems far more effectively than violent rebellion or coercion. For instance, the Indian independence movement led by Gandhi did not rely on military power or violence but on peaceful protests, truth (satya), and the power of moral authority to gain public support and challenge British colonial rule. The power derived from love and moral righteousness created a sense of solidarity among people, fostering a lasting and transformative change in India.
In modern contexts, this quote resonates with efforts in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and social justice. For example, movements like Black Lives Matter or climate justice campaigns often operate from a place of love—love for human dignity, the planet, and future generations—rather than through fear-based tactics. Gandhi’s insight reminds us that the most enduring and effective power in the world comes from love and the ability to inspire people to act for the common good, rather than imposing fear or repression. Whether in personal relationships or in global movements for justice, love-based power fosters unity, understanding, and long-term transformation, making it far more resilient than power derived from force or fear.
