Gandhi and Sharp: Two Visions of Nonviolent Power

This article offers a comprehensive comparative analysis of two influential approaches to nonviolent action—Mahatma Gandhi’s ethical, spiritually rooted practice of nonviolence and Gene Sharp’s rational, strategy-oriented framework. It begins by contextualizing social action as a deliberate, collective endeavor aimed at addressing societal injustices and fostering transformative change. The discussion then delves into the evolving nature of activism, emphasizing the diverse methods—from grassroots protests to digital campaigns—employed by modern movements. By contrasting Gandhi’s commitment to moral transformation through nonviolence and truth with Sharp’s systematic withdrawal of power through strategic protest tactics, the article highlights both the convergences and divergences in their philosophies. Ultimately, it argues for an integrated approach that blends ethical commitments with tactical precision, a synthesis that holds significant promise for contemporary social and political movements confronting complex challenges such as globalization, authoritarianism, and social inequality.