Concept of freedom an appraisal of Karl Jaspers and M K Gandhi

Abstract

The present thesis is based on the concept of freedom with a comparative study of the views given by Karl Jaspers and M.K Gandhi on freedom. Freedom is defined as the state of being free, independent and without restrictions. Karl Jaspers has contributed immensely to the concept of freedom. Jaspers entire philosophy is guided by the Quest for Being . Mahatma Gandhi had developed his concept of freedom and he struggled throughout his life to get freedom for India. He implemented non-violence and non-co-operation to achieve freedom. Swaraj for Mahatma Gandhi means self-rule and freedom from foreign rule. He dreamt of sovereignty of the people based on pure moral authority. His entire ideology was based on the fundamental doctrine of truth, non-violence and democracy. He wanted basic rights like right to religion, speech, press, right to be treated equally, right to freedom of association, right of minorities to religion and education, right to private property and right to form unions etc. Gandhi ji never tolerated the subordination of one nation or individual to the other. In this research work an effort has been made to discuss the problem of freedom in existential philosophy with special reference to Karl Jaspers and M.K. Gandhi. Introduction includes a preliminary approach towards the concept of freedom by both the philosophers. In the second chapter, a detailed description of freedom according to Karl Jaspers is discussed. In third chapter, I have discussed freedom according to M.K. Gandhi from all the possible aspects. The fourth chapter is a comparative study specifically based on the concept of freedom as discussed by Karl Jaspers and M.K. Gandhi. The fifth chapter is a conclusion discussing the similarities and dissimilarities regarding the concept of freedom as discussed by both the philosophers. newline