Mahatma Gandhi&rsquo;s Doctrine of Ahimsa: Implication on Noted Filipino  Students&rsquo; Values

Maria Luisa  A. Valdez,

Mahatma Gandhi’s Doctrine of Ahimsa: Implication on Noted Filipino Students’ Values

Abstract:

This study generally aimed to analyze Mahatma Gandhi’s doctrine of ahimsa and its implication on noted Filipino students’ values. This paper employed the qualitative philosophical method of research in analyzing the tenets of ahimsa in the representative literary works chosen. This involved the science of textual criticism and hermeneutics supported by the researcher’s analysis and insights with reference to the content of the texts to bring about the philosophical treatment of the identified works.

The results of analysis and interpretation revealed that: 1) Ahimsa refers to the principle of nonviolence based on the sacredness of all living creatures and an important tenet of ancient Indian religions specifically Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism; 2) Gandhi is one of the writer-thinkers who philosophizes that ahimsa is the ontological core of existence; 3) The salient points of the doctrine find their noblest expressions and exemplifications on his life and works; 4) While leading nationwide campaigns to ease the humanitarian issues of poverty, women’s rights, religious and ethnic harmony and injustices of the caste system which are quite evident in his works, Gandhi applied the principles of nonviolent civil disobedience, playing a key role in freeing India from foreign domination, and 5) Gandhi’s writings can inspire the Filipino students to turn to the transcendental diversion of humanity and to change the way they think and review their values through the tenets of literature supplied by the re-examined nonviolence advocate and his commitment to life here and thereafter.