What was Gandhi’s view on totalitarian state and why he opposed fascism?

Mahatma Gandhi's views on totalitarianism and fascism were deeply rooted in his commitment to principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and human dignity. Gandhi opposed totalitarianism and fascism because he believed they were antithetical to fundamental values of freedom, democracy, and social justice. Gandhi's critique of totalitarianism and fascism reflected his understanding of the dangers of centralized power, authoritarianism, and the suppression of individual rights and freedoms.

1. Opposition to Centralized Power: Gandhi rejected the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual or ruling party, which characterized totalitarian regimes and fascist governments. He believed that centralized power leads to tyranny, oppression, and the denial of individual autonomy and self-determination. Gandhi advocated for decentralized forms of governance, grassroots democracy, and participatory decision-making, where power is dispersed among communities and individuals, ensuring accountability, transparency, and inclusivity.

2. Defense of Individual Freedom and Rights: Gandhi upheld the importance of individual freedom, rights, and dignity as essential components of a just and humane society. He opposed totalitarianism and fascism because they curtailed individual liberties, suppressed dissent, and violated basic human rights. Gandhi believed in the inherent worth and dignity of every human being, emphasizing the need to respect and protect individual freedoms, including freedom of speech, expression, and association.

3. Commitment to Non-Violence and Peaceful Resistance: Gandhi rejected the use of violence and coercion as means to achieve political ends, which he saw as inherent in totalitarian and fascist ideologies. He believed in the power of non-violent resistance, civil disobedience, and moral persuasion as more effective and ethical methods for achieving social justice and political change. Gandhi argued that violence breeds more violence, perpetuating cycles of conflict, oppression, and suffering.

4. Emphasis on Truth and Integrity: Gandhi emphasized the importance of truth (satya) and integrity in public life, contrasting with the propaganda, manipulation, and deception employed by totalitarian and fascist regimes to control and manipulate public opinion. Gandhi believed in the power of truth to inspire moral courage, foster trust, and build genuine solidarity among individuals and communities.

5. Vision of Inclusive and Just Society: Gandhi's opposition to totalitarianism and fascism was informed by his vision of a society based on principles of equality, justice, and compassion. He advocated for social and economic reforms that uplifted the marginalized, empowered the disenfranchised, and promoted the welfare of all members of society. Gandhi's vision of Sarvodaya (welfare of all) emphasized the importance of social solidarity, mutual respect, and cooperation in building a more inclusive and just society.

6. Concern for Human Dignity and Well-being: Gandhi's critique of totalitarianism and fascism was grounded in his concern for the dignity and well-being of every human being. He rejected ideologies that dehumanized and scapegoated certain groups based on race, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation. Gandhi believed in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, advocating for compassion, empathy, and solidarity in human relations.

Overall, Gandhi's opposition to totalitarianism and fascism reflected his commitment to principles of non-violence, truth, and human dignity. He saw these ideologies as incompatible with fundamental values of freedom, democracy, and social justice, and he advocated for alternative visions of governance and society based on decentralization, individual freedom, and moral integrity. Gandhi's critique of totalitarianism and fascism remains relevant today as a reminder of the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of defending democratic principles and human rights.