An essential compendium for understanding Gandhi's profound legacy. "One has to speak out and stand up for one's convictions. Inaction at a time of conflagration is inexcusable."—Mahatma Gandhi The basic principles of Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and non-violent action (Satyagraha) were chosen by Thomas Merton for this volume in 1965. In his challenging Introduction, "Gandhi and the One-Eyed Giant," Merton emphasizes the importance of action rather than mere pacifism as a central component of non-violence, and illustrates how the foundations of Gandhi's universal truths are linked to traditional Hindu Dharma, the Greek philosophers, and the teachings of Christ and Thomas Aquinas. Educated as a Westerner in South Africa, it was Gandhi's desire to set aside the caste system as well as his political struggles in India which led him to discover the dynamic power of non-cooperation. But, non-violence for Gandhi "was not simply a political tactic," as Merton observes: "the spirit of non-violence sprang from an inner realization of spiritual unity in himself." Gandhi's politics of spiritual integrity have influenced generations of people around the world, as well as civil rights leaders from Martin Luther King, Jr. and Steve Biko to Václav Havel and Aung San Suu Kyi. Mark Kurlansky has written an insightful preface for this edition that touches upon the history of non-violence and reflects the core of Gandhi's spiritual and ethical doctrine in the context of current global conflicts.

Explore the enduring relevance of Gandhi's doctrine of non-violence in 'Africa Needs Gandhi' and its impact on contemporary issues. Embark on a thought-provoking exploration of non-violence and social change with Jude Thaddeus Langeh Basebang, Cmf's insightful work, "Africa Needs Gandhi: The Relevance of Gandhi's Doctrine of Non-violence." Delve into a narrative that examines the enduring impact of Gandhi's principles on the African continent. As Basebang unfolds the relevance of Gandhi's doctrine, witness a narrative that resonates with the quest for justice, equality, and peaceful transformation. His exploration takes you through the corridors of history, inviting reflection on the potential of non-violence as a catalyst for social change. But here's the question that echoes through the pages: How can Gandhi's principles be applied to the unique challenges faced by Africa, and what lessons can be drawn from his philosophy in the pursuit of justice and liberation? Could this work be a guide for contemporary movements seeking transformative change? Explore the profound insights within Basebang's exploration, where each paragraph serves as a stepping stone into the world of non-violent resistance. This edition invites you to engage in a dialogue on the enduring legacy of Gandhi's principles in the context of African struggles for freedom. Are you ready to journey into the heart of social change with Gandhi's principles as your guide? Dive into the pages of "Africa Needs Gandhi" and let Basebang's thoughtful analysis be a source of inspiration for those advocating for justice and equality. Immerse yourself in short, impactful paragraphs that navigate the historical and philosophical landscapes surrounding Gandhi's doctrine. Basebang's work is not just an analysis; it's a call to action for those committed to the principles of non-violence. Here's your chance to own a piece of literature that explores the intersection of philosophy and social change. Acquire "Africa Needs Gandhi" now, and let the principles of non-violence guide your understanding of justice and liberation.

The freedom struggles the world over aiming at liberty from the foreign yoke have been political in nature and the changes in social institutions, if any, were only incidental having not been originally designed or at best post independence script. In sharp contrast stands the 'Non-violent Non-co-operation movement', launched by Mahatma Gandhi for Swaraj built on the foundation of social reforms - HinduMuslim-Unity, removal of untouchability, empowerment of women, Swadeshi and adherence to non-violence as a policy. Phraseology of the 'Nonco-operation movement', in itself gives the philosophy, purpose and content of the movement. However, without a serious study of the movement the vital point missed by the people in understanding the movement is that non-co-operation with the government (British Raj) presupposed co-operation within ourselves - the freedom fighters regardless of religion, caste or creed. This entailed the evolution of the Constructive Programme - the programme of action for strengthening and sustaining the movement. Attempt has been made in the study to understand how Gandhi succeeded in a short period in bringing much needed solidarity for the movement and Swaraj in the Indian society divided by religion and internal caste conflicts in the majority Hindu community. Gandhi era means 1919-1948 because he launched the movement in 1919, which made Mr. Gandhi - Mahatma Gandhi, and 1948, when he fell to an assailant's bullet and was called the Father of the Nation. Way back in 1917 he prophetically said that 'Only if I die for India shall I know that I was fit to live'. Gandhi era means Gandhi and Gandhi alone in this period. A comprehensive study of the entire period was not possible for an old man of 83 years in a short period. Therefore, the period chosen for this study is 1919-1922 which is the most momentous period of the freedom struggle as also the initial period of the movement to ascertain probability of its success. For this purpose, this objective driven book has been divided in two parts. While the second part deals with the movement in chronological order from the data sieved from the Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi to show that the movement was not only the brainchild of Gandhi but its course and eventual suspension was also decided by him, the second part is more in the nature of analysis for the serious and general readers alike to appreciate objectively the greatness of the leader.