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Mahatma Gandhi, a pioneer of nonviolent resistance, advocated for the transformative potential of silence in resolving conflicts. Gandhi’s concept of silence extends beyond mere absence of speech; it embodies a state of inner calm, reflection, and moral strength. This chapter accordingly attempts to delve into Gandhi’s philosophy of silence as a strategic and profound instrument in mitigating conflict at both individual and societal levels. By abstaining from verbal or physical retaliation, Gandhi challenged adversaries to confront their own violence and injustice, thereby paving the way for reconciliation and dialogue. Similarly, Gandhi’s use of silence during moments of crisis, such as fasting and meditation, underscored its power to evoke empathy, conscience, and moral awakening in both oppressors and the oppressed. Hence, through his practice of silent resistance, Gandhi demonstrated the capacity of silence to disarm opponents, de-escalate tensions, and foster deeper understanding. Furthermore, Gandhi regarded silence as a means of self-discipline and self-purification, essential for cultivating inner resilience and moral integrity. By retreating into silence, individuals could introspect, clarify their values, and discern the most ethical course of action in times of conflict. Gandhi’s emphasis on the practice of ‘maunvrat’ (vow of silence) as a form of spiritual discipline exemplifies his belief in the transformative potential of inner silence in promoting personal and social harmony. Hence, in contemporary contexts, Gandhi’s advocacy of silence offers valuable insights for conflict-resolution practitioners and peacebuilders. In an era characterized by rapid communication, noise, and information overload, the deliberate embrace of silence can serve as a counterbalance, fostering attentiveness, mindfulness, and deep listening in interpersonal interactions. Moreover, Gandhi’s emphasis on the ethical use of silence underscores the importance of sincerity, humility, and non-egoism in communication processes, which are vital for building trust and fostering genuine dialogue. Hence, by embracing Gandhi’s ingenious tool of silence as a form of active resistance and spiritual practice, individuals and societies can transcend the discordant noise of conflict and cultivate a culture of nonviolence, compassion, and mutual respect.

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Situating Speech in Silence: The Crisis of Liberal ‘Free Speech’ Model and Gandhi’s Advocacy of ‘Maun’ as a Powerful Tool for Conflict Resolution

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年

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  • Ratika Gaur

摘要

Mahatma Gandhi, a pioneer of nonviolent resistance, advocated for the transformative potential of silence in resolving conflicts. Gandhi’s concept of silence extends beyond mere absence of speech; it embodies a state of inner calm, reflection, and moral strength. This chapter accordingly attempts to delve into Gandhi’s philosophy of silence as a strategic and profound instrument in mitigating conflict at both individual and societal levels. By abstaining from verbal or physical retaliation, Gandhi challenged adversaries to confront their own violence and injustice, thereby paving the way for reconciliation and dialogue. Similarly, Gandhi’s use of silence during moments of crisis, such as fasting and meditation, underscored its power to evoke empathy, conscience, and moral awakening in both oppressors and the oppressed. Hence, through his practice of silent resistance, Gandhi demonstrated the capacity of silence to disarm opponents, de-escalate tensions, and foster deeper understanding. Furthermore, Gandhi regarded silence as a means of self-discipline and self-purification, essential for cultivating inner resilience and moral integrity. By retreating into silence, individuals could introspect, clarify their values, and discern the most ethical course of action in times of conflict. Gandhi’s emphasis on the practice of ‘maunvrat’ (vow of silence) as a form of spiritual discipline exemplifies his belief in the transformative potential of inner silence in promoting personal and social harmony. Hence, in contemporary contexts, Gandhi’s advocacy of silence offers valuable insights for conflict-resolution practitioners and peacebuilders. In an era characterized by rapid communication, noise, and information overload, the deliberate embrace of silence can serve as a counterbalance, fostering attentiveness, mindfulness, and deep listening in interpersonal interactions. Moreover, Gandhi’s emphasis on the ethical use of silence underscores the importance of sincerity, humility, and non-egoism in communication processes, which are vital for building trust and fostering genuine dialogue. Hence, by embracing Gandhi’s ingenious tool of silence as a form of active resistance and spiritual practice, individuals and societies can transcend the discordant noise of conflict and cultivate a culture of nonviolence, compassion, and mutual respect.