The spirit of democracy cannot be imposed from without. It has to come from within.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Democracy cannot be forced by outside powers; it must grow from a society's internal values.
- In plain terms
- Democracy has to start inside a country, not be forced from outside.
- What can you take from it?
- Governance is sustainable only when rooted in local consensus.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What internal values support democracy?
- Can freedom be exported?
Another view
External support can sometimes be necessary to protect nascent democratic movements.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
The sayings of Muhammed are a treasure of wisdom not only for Muslims but for all of mankind.
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