Question

What is modern civilization according to Mahatma Gandhi?

Hint:

Gandhi’s critique of modern civilization highlights the importance of spiritual growth, ethical values, and a harmonious relationship with nature, rather than focusing solely on material progress.

Answer 1

According to Mahatma Gandhi, modern civilization, particularly the Western model, is deeply flawed due to its emphasis on materialism, competition, and exploitation. Gandhi viewed modern civilization as one that prioritizes material progress and technological advancement at the expense of spiritual well-being, human values, and the environment. He believed that true civilization should not merely focus on wealth or physical comforts, but rather on the development of moral and ethical values such as non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and simplicity.
In Gandhi’s view, Western civilization was a system that fostered inequality, environmental destruction, and the degradation of human relationships. It valued individual gain and economic success over the collective good and the preservation of nature. For Gandhi, true progress was not measured by economic growth but by the improvement of the character of the people. He called for a civilization based on simplicity, humility, and the moral strength of individuals and communities.
Moreover, Gandhi's idea of civilization was rooted in self-reliance (Swadeshi), which he advocated through the promotion of local industries, such as spinning khadi, and a rejection of foreign goods that represented colonial exploitation. Gandhi’s vision of civilization emphasized a balance between spiritual and material needs, where people could live harmoniously with nature and each other.
Thus, for Mahatma Gandhi, modern civilization was a hollow concept that needed to be redefined to focus more on the well-being of the individual and the community, rather than mere material success. He believed that the world could achieve true progress only by adopting the principles of non-violence, truth, and a deep connection with nature.