Gandhi: Selected Writings Paperback – February 18, 2005

It is Ghandi what more needs to be said.

As I write this, you can get a copy of this book for a penny (plus shipping.) If there's a better bargain out there somewhere, I'm certainly not aware of it.In his lengthy introduction, Ronald Duncan says: "My interest in editing this book derives from my conviction that Gandhi is a relevant figure to the contemporary scene, and that he has a profound contribution to make to it and to the future." (p. 28) This introduction is well worth reading. A sample insight: "All politicians and religious leaders have this to learn from Gandhi: the ability to admit that they are sometimes completely wrong." (p. 30)For those with a facile estimation of Gandhi, some of this book will come as a considerable surprise. For instance, "The Doctrine of the Sword" (pp.48ff.) begins: "I do believe that, where there is only a choice between cowardice and violence, I would advise violence." Definitely not the un-nuanced, classroom once-over generally given to Gandhi. The direct and indirect influence that Christianity had on Gandhi's thought and action probably will be surprising to many as well. For instance: "I saw that nations like individuals could only be made through the agony of the Cross and in no other way." (p. 274)Which brings us to Part IX, "Aphorisms and Extracts," from which the quotation in the preceding paragraph was taken. These capture much of who and what Gandhi was.Whatever one's political and religious leanings, a intelligent and perceptive reader will find much of interest in this book. And for any substantive grasp of the Indian subcontinent before, during, and after Gandhi, this book is invaluable.(Most of the same content appeared as  Selected writings of Mahatma Gandhi. .)