“I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent” – Mahatma Gandhi

1. Meaning and significance:

Gandhi’s quote expresses a profound critique of violence as a means to achieve goals. He argues that while violence may seem to produce positive outcomes in the short term, its negative consequences are far more lasting and damaging.

The quote’s significance lies in its challenge to the common justification of violence for supposedly noble ends. Gandhi suggests that even when violence appears to serve a good purpose, any benefits are fleeting, while the harm it causes – both to individuals and society – endures. This perspective encourages a deeper consideration of non-violent alternatives and the long-term impacts of our actions.

2. Using the quote in an essay:

To effectively use this quote in an essay, one might introduce it in a discussion about conflict resolution or social change. For example:

Mahatma Gandhi, a pioneer of non-violent resistance, offered a compelling argument against the use of force in his statement: “I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.” This insight challenges us to reconsider violent approaches to problem-solving, even when they seem justified. In examining historical conflicts and their aftermaths, we can observe how the scars left by violence often persist long after any immediate gains have faded. Gandhi’s words prompt us to explore alternative methods of addressing injustice and achieving social progress that do not rely on force or coercion.