Much of Gandhi's philosophy is rooted in what he learned as a child. From his mother, he learned Hindu teachings. She often took him with her to care for the poor of the area and encouraged fasting as a way to achieve purity of the soul (Logue, 6). Vegetarianism and simple living were also principles first given to Gandhi by his mother and born religion, Hinduism. Gandhi's father was the town diwan - the man to settle disputes. When Gandhi was 15, he tried smoking and stole money from servants as well as jewelry from his brother. He felt guilty for doing such things, however, and wro

Gandhi wanted to prove to the Hindus and Muslims that "the only devils in the world are those running around in our own hearts and that is where our battles ought to be fought" (Gandhi, np). This further meant that violence upon other people or even animals would only prove to be unnecessary. On his way to a case in South Africa, Gandhi was forced to leave a first class seat on the basis of his race. That night, as he spent hours in the cold at a bus station because he refused to sit in third class while possessing a first class ticket, he came to a decision. He vowed to himself not to yield to force and not, in turn, to use force to get ahead (Leigh, np). He was reminded of an old precept he learned as a child, "return good for evil" and allowed that to become a guiding principle in his movement towards non-violence.

Gandhi taught that happiness does not come with things, but with work and pride in what you do. Knowing this, it was necessary for local skills to be revived in their community (Gandhi, np). Under British rule, Indian principles of simple living had been reduced. The Indians could be found adopting habits of the West such as expensive clothing and tea. They even ate meat, despite it being often against their religion (The Higher Taste, 28). In order for the country to gain independence from Britain, Gandhi realized that they must be independent economically. Gandhi walked the country, offering spinning wheels to people as an alternative to purchasing British goods ("Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi", 203).

The uniting of all people included those of differing religions. When India was finally liberated from Britain, there was a dispute on who would run the country, the Hindus or the Muslims. Gandhi wanted them to unite peacefully, but they broke into war instead. Gandhi went on a 21 day fast in attempt to persuade them from fighting ("Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi", 203). He believed that there was truth to all religions, if one would only look to see it. He reinforced his belief that "all men are brothers" by adding that this Truth, also known as God, could be found as well in all people (Leigh, np).

"Quotes". Gandhi, Mohandas K. Available: http://www.mahatma.org.in/anthro.htm

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