What was/were the formative influence(s) on the philosophy of Mahatma ...
- Gandhiji was influenced by the 18th century Pranami sect that advocated the unity of faiths
- He was also deeply influenced by the theosophists.
- Gandhi was very much influenced by authors such as Leo Tolstoy.
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What was/were the formative influence(s) on the philosophy of Mahatma ...
Formative Influences on Mahatma Gandhi's Philosophy
Mahatma Gandhi was one of the most influential leaders of the Indian independence movement. His philosophy of nonviolence and truth has inspired many people around the world. There were several formative influences on Gandhi's philosophy, some of which are:
1. Pranami sect: The 18th century Pranami sect, which advocated the unity of faiths, had a significant influence on Gandhi. He was born into a Hindu family but was exposed to the teachings of other religions at a young age. The Pranami sect's belief in the essential unity of all religions resonated with Gandhi's own philosophy of religious pluralism.
2. Theosophists: Theosophy, a spiritual movement that emerged in the late 19th century, also had an impact on Gandhi's thinking. Theosophists believed in the existence of a universal brotherhood of humanity and sought to promote spiritual development and social reform. Gandhi was drawn to theosophy's emphasis on the unity of all life and its rejection of caste and class distinctions.
3. Romantics: Gandhi was an admirer of the Romantic poets, especially William Wordsworth. He appreciated their love of nature, their emphasis on individual freedom, and their rejection of materialism. Gandhi's own philosophy of simple living and self-reliance was influenced by the Romantics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gandhi's philosophy was shaped by a variety of influences, including the Pranami sect, theosophy, and the Romantic poets. His belief in the essential unity of all religions, his commitment to nonviolence and truth, and his rejection of materialism and caste distinctions were all influenced by these formative experiences.