The Philosophy of Nonviolence
Understanding how peaceful resistance has overcome tyranny and transformed societies throughout history.
What is Nonviolence?
Nonviolence is more than simply the absence of physical violence. It is a philosophy and strategy for social change that rejects the use of violence while actively opposing injustice and oppression.
At its core, nonviolence recognizes the inherent dignity of every human being—including one's adversaries. It seeks to defeat injustice, not people, and to create conditions where former enemies can become allies in building a more just society.
"Nonviolence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man." — Mahatma Gandhi
Core Principles
Ahimsa (Non-Harm)
Refusing to cause harm to any living being in thought, word, or deed. This principle extends beyond physical violence to include psychological harm and structural violence.
Satya (Truth)
Unwavering commitment to truth and honesty. Nonviolent action derives its power from the moral force of truth, which cannot be suppressed indefinitely.
Self-Suffering
Willingness to accept suffering rather than inflict it on others. This voluntary sacrifice reveals the injustice being opposed and can transform the hearts of oppressors.
Love for Opponents
Maintaining goodwill and seeking the welfare of all, including those who oppose you. The goal is reconciliation and the creation of the "beloved community."
Justice as the Goal
Nonviolence attacks evil systems, not the people caught up in those systems. The objective is to defeat injustice, not to defeat or humiliate opponents.
Universe on the Side of Justice
Faith that the moral arc of the universe bends toward justice, and that truth and love will ultimately triumph over hatred and violence.
Nonviolence in History
The Salt March
Gandhi led 78 followers on a 240-mile march to the sea, where they made their own salt in defiance of British taxation. This act of civil disobedience galvanized India's independence movement.
Montgomery Bus Boycott
After Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, African Americans boycotted the bus system for 381 days. Led by Dr. King, the boycott ended segregation on public transportation.
Velvet Revolution
Peaceful protests in Czechoslovakia led to the nonviolent transition from communist rule to democracy in just six weeks, demonstrating the power of people's movements.
People Power Revolution
Millions of Filipinos took to the streets in peaceful protest, toppling the Marcos dictatorship without firing a shot. The movement inspired similar revolutions worldwide.
Methods of Nonviolent Action
Gene Sharp identified 198 methods of nonviolent action, organized into three categories:
Protest & Persuasion
- Public speeches and statements
- Petitions and letters
- Marches and processions
- Vigils and prayer meetings
- Symbolic actions
Non-Cooperation
- Boycotts (economic, social, political)
- Strikes and work stoppages
- Civil disobedience
- Tax resistance
- Withdrawal from institutions
Nonviolent Intervention
- Sit-ins and occupations
- Blockades
- Creating alternative institutions
- Parallel government
- Nonviolent obstruction
Learn from the Masters
Study the lives and teachings of history's greatest advocates for peace and nonviolence.
Explore Peace Leaders