The relevance of Gandhian thoughts in the digital world

BIJU DHARMAPALAN

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping our world, making the relevance of many ancient philosophies seem distant. People may find it difficult to comprehend our predecessors' hardships during their lifetimes. Even people may find it difficult to believe that great philosophers who have given us a wealth of knowledge once lived on this planet. We will accept only those incidents and individuals whose photographs or videos are accessible. We are fortunate to have documentary evidence of our nation's father, Mahatma Gandhi. Otherwise, people would have forgotten him. But even in this digital world where AI rules humanity, Gandhiji's philosophy remains profoundly relevant. The core values that Gandhi stood for—such as non-violence, truth, self-reliance, simplicity, and social justice—offer timeless guidance for managing the challenges humanity faces even today.

We can interpret nonviolence (Ahimsa) in this digital era as ensuring the ethical and responsible use of AI technologies. Gandhian principles are highly relevant today as we start integrating AI into aspects of human life, be it healthcare, economy, agriculture, or warehousing. As we indulge in digital war, Gandhi's nonviolence principle prompts us to develop technologies that prioritize human welfare and minimize harm.

Cyberbullying is on the rise, and many people are falling victim. Cyberbullying fundamentally involves the use of words, images, or exclusion on the internet as a means of violence. Unfortunately, even political parties sometimes encourage such behaviour for gain, which fosters enmity between communities—a divide that can be challenging to bridge. By embracing ahimsa, individuals can practice empathy and kindness online, refraining from harmful or derogatory comments. Promoting non-violence in digital spaces could lead to reduced aggression and a more supportive online environment.

Gandhi's emphasis on truth is a powerful antidote to the deceit and falsehoods that often fuel cyberbullying. Many online bullies hide behind anonymous profiles, spreading rumours, lies, or misinformation. By fostering a commitment to truth, online communities can reduce the spread of harmful lies and the fear that comes from cyberbullies who manipulate facts to hurt others. Truthfulness can also empower victims to speak out against bullying, creating a culture of transparency and accountability. The community can prevent this by practising honesty and integrity in all actions, including how we present ourselves online and offline.

Gandhi practised self-discipline and restraint, understanding the importance of controlling one’s impulses. Applying self-discipline is crucial in the digital age, where people can react instantly and sometimes impulsively. By cultivating self-control, individuals can pause before responding to a situation online, reducing the likelihood of lashing out in harmful ways. This can prevent the escalation of conflicts and reduce the frequency of bullying incidents.

Gandhi’s self-reliance (swadeshi) philosophy is highly applicable in a world where major tech companies dominate AI development. It encourages nations, especially third-world countries, to build AI capabilities and not rely solely on foreign technology. Fostering digital independence and ensuring the use of AI in ways that benefit local economies and cultures is crucial.

 One of Gandhi’s most enduring legacies was his advocacy for the marginalized. We must ensure that these technologies do not exacerbate inequalities in the AI-dominated world. We should use AI to promote inclusivity, reduce the digital divide, and provide technology access for all, aligning with Gandhi's social justice vision.

Gandhiji was also known for his simplicity. He envisioned that humans could have a sustainable life on this planet by following the principle of simplicity. Gandhian ideas on sustainable living can influence how we manage the environmental impact of technology. The growing energy consumption by data centres, electronic waste, and the carbon footprint of digital devices call for more eco-conscious practices in the tech industry, aligning with Gandhian thoughts on environmental stewardship. One major issue our present generation faces is the addiction to digital media and various psychological and mental problems associated with it. Gandhi advocated for a life of simplicity, which can be relevant in reducing digital clutter and overconsumption. Overusing social media, digital gadgets, and constant connectivity can lead to stress. Adopting a minimalist digital lifestyle, guided by Gandhian simplicity, can help maintain a healthy balance with technology.

With its moral clarity and human-centred approach, Gandhian philosophy serves as a vital guide for shaping the AI-driven future. Even in a world where technology seems to dominate, Gandhi’s philosophy is highly relevant for building peace and happiness in society and the world at large.

(The author is a dean at Garden City University and an adjunct faculty member at NIAS, Bangalore. E-mail: bijudharmapalan@gmail.com)