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About this quote

What does it mean?
When fear of jail vanishes, repression fuels people's resolve.
In plain terms
Without fear of imprisonment, people become more determined.
What can you take from it?
Remove fear to empower resistance.

Where it applies

  • authoritarian regimes
  • civil disobedience

Putting it to work

  • publicize legal protections
  • build solidarity networks

Questions to consider

  • How does fear shape activism?
  • What alternatives to jail fear exist?

Another view

Some may still be deterred by other risks.

More from Mahatma Gandhi

  1. Civility is the most difficult part of satyagraha.

    Permalink to quote #116
  2. The end of satyagraha campaign can be described as worthy only when it leaves the satyagrahis stronger and more spirited then they are in the beginning.

    Permalink to quote #118
  3. Physical weakness in men manifests itself in irascibility.

    Permalink to quote #115

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