About Book

This first volume establishes the scientific foundations of a psychology of nonviolence by situating Gandhi’s philosophy within modern psychological research. Rather than focusing on destructive human behavior, as seen in the Milgram experiments, the authors turn attention to those who resisted violence and disobeyed authority, using Gandhi’s life and philosophy as a central lens. Through studies on empathy, morality, cognition, and self-control, the authors argue that Gandhi’s principles can be understood not only as spiritual or moral ideals but also as scientifically valid psychological frameworks for nonviolent behavior. Interviews with Gandhi’s contemporaries, along with analyses of his writings and actions, further strengthen the work. This book builds the theoretical groundwork that is expanded in Volume 2 (applications of Gandhian psychology across different fields). In an age where radicalization, extremism, and social violence are pressing issues, this volume provides scientific justification for nonviolent psychology as both a preventive and rehabilitative approach. Community Engagement Mechanisms include: • Demonstrating the scientific credibility of Gandhian nonviolence for peace education and conflict transformation. • Informing rehabilitation programs for youth vulnerable to extremism by integrating psychology of empathy and moral development. • Providing academic grounding for policy design in peace psychology, community health, and interfaith harmony. • Bridging science and philosophy to strengthen resilience in civil society. The book makes a unique contribution by grounding Gandhian nonviolence in scientific psychology, offering insights into empathy, self-control, and moral cognition that directly counter violent and extremist behavior. It provides the theoretical foundation necessary for applying Gandhian thought in education, rehabilitation, and policy. Strengths: • Shifts psychological research focus from perpetrators of violence to resistors of violence. • Strong integration of Gandhi’s philosophy with empirical psychology. • Establishes the scientific roots of nonviolence as a credible academic field. Limitations: • Theoretical orientation with limited applied case studies (addressed in Volume 2). • Dense academic style may require simplification for community-based initiatives.