Principles of Living
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Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi

@mahatma-gandhi

“Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948) was an Indian lawyer, anti-colonial nationalist, and political ethicist who led the nonviolent independence movement against British rule in India. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential leaders of the 20th century.”

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The manifesto · 16 principles
  1. Keep faith in the power of conscience and moral persuasion over force.
  2. Use fasting, vows, and personal austerity as tools for moral discipline and social witness.
  3. Treat every human being with equal dignity, including the marginalized and untouchable.
  4. Support local self-reliance and the dignity of village and community life.
  5. Value courage without aggression, and face fear with moral strength.
  6. Maintain humility and keep learning through reflection, self-examination, and openness to correction.
  7. Be willing to suffer personally for a just cause rather than inflict harm on others.
  8. Promote communal harmony and respect among people of different religions and backgrounds.
  9. Work diligently and value honest labor, including manual work.
  10. Stand for civil disobedience against unjust laws, but remain peaceful and respectful.
  11. Believe that means and ends are inseparable; just goals must be pursued through just methods.
  12. Exercise self-discipline and control over desires, habits, and impulses.
  13. Live simply and reject unnecessary luxury and material excess.
  14. Serve others selflessly and dedicate life to the welfare of the poor and oppressed.
  15. Seek truth above all else (satya), and let truth guide every decision.
  16. Practice nonviolence (ahimsa) in thought, speech, and action.