Religion in the media
1a.) Non violent struggle for freedom and justice in "Gandhi"I have chosen a very famous and acclaimed film 'Gandhi' directed by Richard Attenborough and released in 1982. The life of Mahatma Gandhi is well portrayed, covering his South African period and return and work in India, culminating in independence of India from British rule. Although this film does not deal directly with religion, it presents one of the fundamental themes in Christianity (which Gandhi himself claimed to be deeply influenced by), the concept of non violent struggle against evil. People are urged to strive for justice without responding to force with force. One act of violence is followed by more violence, and it may never end. This religious theme is shown in the film in a new, political context, and tested as revolutionary moral strategy to solve complex issues on the world scene. The connection between Gandhi's approach of non violence and Christianity is well portrayed through the friendship between the Christian clergyman, John Mathews, and Gandhi himself. During their first meeting in South Africa, Ghandi shows that he is very familiar with Christian teaching and that his political work is inspired by them. In his words " H
Although introduced and best known as a Christian theme, non violence became a doctrine adopted by many as a moral value, political movement or as a way of life. The main problem and in India the tragic consequence, is that this idea can't solve problems unless it is accepted by most. However, there are organisations such as Pax Christi which are dedicated to non-violence and reject war, preparation for war and any form of violence and domination. All religious groups including British who are Christians, have their good and bad people, people who value non violence and those who justify it and use it. One very good example where non violet struggle brought a peaceful solution was the Civil Rights Movement lead by Martin Luther King. As among Christians, the idea of non violence was not accepted by all in Gandhi's India. For example among Christians there is a division based on the attitude to war. Above examples are encouraging and show that the theme of non violence can succeed in solving major political issues. There are similar situations between different groups of Christians. The fact that he, even as a non Christian, based his work on Christian beliefs should make most Christians proud of their religion. It is shown in the film that in some circumstances non violence can be a good approach and bring about solutions for political issues. indus like me can learn a lot from Christianity". The other points about fairness to all portrayed in "Gandhi" is that that this is overall well researched and historically accurate film. One can only wish that people involved in retaliations and spirals of violence as is evident in the conflict between the Jews and Palestinians in Israel, could be made to adopt non violent approaches.
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Acceptance Essays
