[Solved] Formative Influences on Mahatma Gandhi's Philosophy

What was/were the formative influence(s) on the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi?
1. Gandhiji was influenced by the 18th Century Pranami sect that advocated the unity of faiths.
2. Gandhiji was influenced by the theosophists.
3. Gandhiji was an admirer of the writings of Romantics like Wordsworth.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

[CDS 2017 (I)]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Gandhian philosophy is a synthesis of various Eastern and Western traditions, emphasizing Ahimsa, Satya, and the universal brotherhood of man.

Authentic Source Evidence

Gandhi's mother was a follower of the Pranami sect, which combined elements of Hinduism and Islam, fostering his lifelong belief in 'Sarva Dharma Sambhava'. During his time in London, he interacted with Theosophists like Annie Besant, who introduced him to the Bhagavad Gita and a broader spiritual perspective.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct. The Pranami sect’s inclusive shrines (containing both Quranic and Vedantic verses) left a deep impression on his childhood.

Logic 2: Statement 2 is correct. The Theosophical Society played a role in Gandhi's 're-discovery' of Indian heritage while in the West.

Logic 3: Statement 3 is incorrect. While Gandhi read widely, his primary literary influences for social and political thought were Tolstoy (The Kingdom of God is Within You), Thoreau (Civil Disobedience), and Ruskin (Unto This Last), rather than the Romantic poets like Wordsworth.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"How did the Pranami sect influence Gandhi's view on religion?"

It taught him that different religions could share common moral values and symbols, forming the root of his pluralistic approach.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Gandhi's philosophy was not a rigid dogma but an evolving synthesis of the local traditions of Gujarat and the global ethical movements of the late 19th century."

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