This quote essentially means that a civil resister, someone who uses nonviolent resistance to protest against injustice, only resorts to resistance when peaceful resolution is no longer an option. It underscores the importance of peace and dialog as primary tools for resolving conflicts. However, when these tools fail or are not available due to oppressive systems or unjust practices, then civil resistance becomes necessary.
The idea behind this quote is grounded in the philosophy of nonviolence that advocates for peaceful protest as a means of achieving social or political change. This does not mean passivity in the face of injustice but rather actively standing up against it without resorting to violence.
In today’s world, this concept can be seen in action through various movements for social justice and equality. For instance, peaceful protests against racial inequality or climate change reflect the essence of this quote – people collectively resisting because they believe peaceable negotiation has become impossible due to systemic issues.
On a personal development level, one could interpret Gandhi’s words as advocating for assertiveness when faced with personal injustices or obstacles. If attempts at peaceful negotiation fail in our personal relationships or work environments – if we feel unheard or disrespected – then it might be time to ‘resist’, i.e., stand up for ourselves and our rights assertively and respectfully.
Gandhi’s statement reminds us that while peace is always desirable, there are times where active resistance becomes necessary – but even then it should uphold the principles of respect and non-violence.