Which of the following thinkers and movements influenced the development of Gandhiji’s political ideas?
- Henry David Thoreau
- John Ruskin
- John Milton
- Jainism
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
1 only
1, 2 and 3 only
1, 2 and 4 only
2 and 4 only
Answer is Wrong!
Answer is Right!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
Statement 2 is correct. John Ruskin’s book ‘Unto This Last’ had a transformative effect on Gandhi. It inspired his economic philosophy, emphasizing the dignity of labour, the value of manual work, and the idea that the welfare of the individual is contained in the welfare of all (Sarvodaya).
Statement 3 is incorrect. While Gandhi was widely read, the 17th-century English poet John Milton is not considered one of the key direct influences on his political ideas. His major influences in Western thought included Tolstoy, Ruskin, and Thoreau.
Statement 4 is correct. Gandhi was born into a family influenced by Jainism and its strong emphasis on Ahimsa (non-violence). This principle was fundamental to his entire philosophy, particularly Satyagraha.