I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote expresses a profound objection to the use of violence as a means to achieve positive outcomes. It suggests that even when violence may seem to bring about some short-term good or serve a particular purpose, its negative consequences and lasting harm far outweigh any temporary benefits.
The quote highlights the enduring and detrimental impact of violence on individuals, communities, and society as a whole. It recognizes that the destructive nature of violence leaves a lasting imprint, perpetuating cycles of hatred, suffering, and trauma that can be difficult to repair or overcome.
By objecting to violence, the quote advocates for peaceful and nonviolent means of resolving conflicts and addressing societal issues. It calls for alternatives that promote understanding, dialogue, empathy, and reconciliation as more sustainable and constructive approaches.
This quote resonates with the principles of nonviolence and the belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. It aligns with the idea that lasting change and justice can be achieved through peaceful means, fostering harmony and promoting the well-being of all.
Who said the quote?
The quote "I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent." was said by Mahatma Gandhi (Bio / Quotes). Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian political and spiritual leader who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One compelling historical example that illustrates the quote "I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent" is the aftermath of the French Revolution. The Revolution, which began in 1789, aimed to overthrow the monarchy and establish equality and justice. However, the initial success and the promise of a new, fair society were overshadowed by the Reign of Terror that followed.
During the Reign of Terror (1793-1794), the revolutionary government, led by figures such as Maximilien Robespierre, employed extreme violence to purge the nation of perceived enemies and counter-revolutionaries. The Committee of Public Safety, in its effort to protect the revolution and build a republic based on liberty, equality, and fraternity, initiated widespread arrests and executions. Thousands were guillotined, and many more were imprisoned or exiled.
While the intention behind this violent crackdown was to secure and solidify the gains of the Revolution, it ultimately led to a climate of fear and instability. The Reign of Terror undermined the revolution’s original ideals and contributed to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, who established himself as a dictator. The temporary good of a revolutionary government’s victory was overshadowed by the long-lasting damage of the violence, which led to further cycles of unrest and the erosion of the very principles the revolution sought to protect.
The French Revolution’s example underscores how the temporary appearance of good achieved through violence can lead to lasting harm. The initial promise of a more just society was marred by the permanent consequences of violence and fear, demonstrating the quote's assertion that the evil wrought by violence tends to be enduring.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In real life, the quote can be applied to various scenarios where violence is used to achieve seemingly positive outcomes. For example, consider the context of workplace conflicts or personal disputes. Imagine a situation where two colleagues are in a heated disagreement, and one of them decides to use aggressive tactics to force a resolution. This could involve public shaming, intimidation, or other forms of coercion.
At first glance, this aggressive approach might seem effective—perhaps it quickly resolves the immediate issue and restores a superficial order. However, the long-term impact of such violence can be detrimental. The aggressive tactics might foster a toxic work environment, diminish trust, and lead to ongoing resentment among team members. The immediate resolution of the conflict is overshadowed by the lasting damage to relationships and morale, creating a more hostile and dysfunctional workplace.
In personal relationships, applying this quote might involve recognizing that resorting to harsh words or confrontational behavior in an argument may provide a short-term victory but can cause long-term harm. For example, using hurtful language during a disagreement might "win" the argument in the moment, but it can leave lasting scars and erode the foundation of trust and respect between individuals.
The quote serves as a reminder that while violence or aggressive behavior might seem to offer a quick solution or apparent benefit, the true cost is often much higher. The harm done can be enduring, affecting relationships, environments, and personal well-being long after the immediate issue has been addressed. Therefore, seeking non-violent, constructive approaches to resolving conflicts and achieving goals is generally more beneficial in the long run, preserving harmony and fostering positive, sustainable outcomes.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
