Question 3 What is the doctrine of satyagraha? How is satyagraha different from and similar to passive resistance?

Question 1

Question 3 What is the doctrine of satyagraha? How is satyagraha different from and similar to passive resistance?

Answer 1

The doctrine of satyagraha, advocated by Gandhi, goes beyond passive resistance by requiring complete non-violence in thought, action, and speech. It necessitates courage, self-reliance, patience, and freedom from covetousness. Passive resistance is defined as a refusal to cooperate with legal requirements through non-violent methods. While both involve non-violent action, satyagraha demands a deeper commitment to non-violence that extends to one’s inner thoughts and intentions, whereas passive resistance may primarily focus on outward actions of non-cooperation. Gandhi viewed satyagraha as a more holistic and morally superior approach, emphasizing the importance of the means being as pure as the ends.