Ethics: Mahatma Gandhi and Compassion | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

Recently, former United Nations Secretary-General, Ban-Ki-Moon, emphasized the importance of Mahatma Gandhi's compassion. He believed that Gandhi embodied the principles of the UN Charter long before its establishment and inspired global leaders like Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. Gandhi's core values of nonviolence, truth, peace, justice, and inclusion are rooted in compassion.

What is Compassion?

Compassion is the feeling that arises when we see others suffering, combined with the desire to help alleviate that suffering. It differs from sympathy and empathy in that: Sympathy involves feeling pity or sorrow for someone else's suffering. Empathy is the ability to understand and share another person's feelings. Compassion encompasses both sympathy and empathy, along with a genuine wish to relieve suffering. Compassion is a universal ethic that transcends cultural, religious, and ideological boundaries.

What are the key values of Mahatma Gandhi that foster Compassion?

• Satyagraha:. method to secure one's rights without harming others. Gandhi's Satyagraha in 1917 was driven by compassion after witnessing the exploitation of indigo farmers by British landlords.
• Equality: Gandhi viewed untouchability as a curse and fought against the discrimination faced by marginalized communities. He also advocated for women's empowerment, recognizing women as embodiments of sacrifice and nonviolence.
• Respect for Humanity: Gandhi showed compassion even towards his oppressors, never harboring hatred for the British people.
• Kindness:. committed vegetarian, Gandhi discouraged animal slaughter on moral grounds. He famously stated that he would choose death over consuming meat, even for medical reasons.
• Sarvodaya (Welfare for All): Gandhi believed in seeing God in every individual and serving humanity as a means to reach God.
• Non-Violence: For Gandhi, non-violence was a positive principle promoting love and selfless action, rather than merely avoiding harm. He considered truth as a supreme principle to be upheld in words and thoughts.
• Concern for Nature: Gandhi advocated against large-scale urbanization, calling for the conservation of nature and biodiversity. He believed that "The Earth has enough resources for our needs but not for our greed."
• Altruism or Self-Sacrifice: Gandhi's Talisman exemplifies his altruism and compassion. He advised recalling the face of the poorest and weakest person when in doubt about one's actions.
• Concept of Trusteeship: Gandhi proposed that landowners and the wealthy act as trustees of their property and resources, dedicating their rights to the common good.

Seven Deadly Social Sins Identified by Mahatma Gandhi

• Wealth Without Work: Acquiring something for nothing, such as manipulating markets and assets without contributing value.
• Pleasure Without Conscience: Seeking pleasure without a sense of responsibility.
• Knowledge Without Character: Having too little or too much knowledge without a strong, principled character can be dangerous.
• Commerce Without Morality: Allowing economic systems to operate without a moral foundation, leading to an immoral society.
• Science Without Humanity: Lacking understanding of the higher human purposes that technology serves.
• Religion Without Sacrifice: Practicing religion for social appearance without addressing social issues.
• Politics Without Principle: The distinction between good and bad politics lies in the principles and purposes of those involved.

Contemporary Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi's Compassion

• Addressing Climate Crisis: Gandhi's philosophy of living in harmony with nature is relevant in tackling the climate crisis.
• Resolving Contemporary Conflicts: His approach of "hate the sin, not the sinner" offers a framework for engaging with those we disagree with while maintaining human dignity.
• Dealing with Economic Crisis: Gandhi's concept of true economics emphasizes social justice and the well-being of all. His ideas of self-sufficiency, decentralized production, trusteeship, and promoting a just and inclusive economic system are pertinent.
• Force for Social Change: Gandhi's ideas are gaining traction in initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission, inspiring movements for social change.
• Addressing Societal Fragmentation: His vision of inclusive spirituality that respects all faiths provides guidance for interfaith dialogue.

Way Forward on Imbibing Compassion

• Imbibing Compassion from Childhood: Providing assistance and encouragement to children fosters a sense of connection towards others, helping them become compassionate future leaders.
• Fostering Social Responsibility: Understanding the challenges faced by social sectors and taking initiatives to reform them is essential.
• Practicing Self-Compassion: Reflecting on one's own sufferings and emotions is crucial to understanding the sufferings of others.
• Accepting Mistakes and Failures: Being patient and forgiving oneself and others for mistakes is important.

Conclusion

Mahatma Gandhi's values are powerful catalysts for change, equipping a generation of informed and empowered citizens to build a future characterized by compassion, equality, and progress. His beliefs continue to guide India and the world in addressing current challenges.