Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Nonviolence: meaning, definitions and examples

✌️
Add to dictionary

nonviolence

 

[nɒnˈvaɪə.ləns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

philosophy, activism

Nonviolence is the practice of advocating for peaceful change without the use of physical force. It is often associated with social and political movements that aim to achieve change while minimizing harm to individuals and groups. Nonviolence can take many forms, including protests, civil disobedience, and advocacy. Figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. are notable proponents of nonviolent resistance, demonstrating its effectiveness in achieving social justice.

Synonyms

civil disobedience, non-aggression, peaceful resistance.

Examples of usage

  • The movement was grounded in principles of nonviolence.
  • She chose nonviolence as a strategy for social change.
  • His commitment to nonviolence influenced many activists.
  • Nonviolence requires patience and resilience.
  • The philosophy of nonviolence can change lives.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'nonviolence' gained popularity during the civil rights movement in the 20th century, focusing on peaceful protests.
  • Mahatma Gandhi pioneered the concept as a way to fight for independence from British rule in India without using violence.
  • Various religions, including Buddhism and Jainism, emphasize the importance of nonviolence in their teachings.

Pop Culture

  • The song 'Imagine' by John Lennon promotes peace and nonviolence, inspiring many people around the world.
  • Movies like 'Selma' depict the struggles and achievements of nonviolent activism during the civil rights era.
  • Nonviolence has been a recurrent theme in popular literature, showcasing characters who choose peace over conflict.

Science

  • Research shows that societies practicing nonviolence tend to have lower rates of crime and better community trust.
  • Psychological studies indicate that nonviolent communication can reduce conflict and improve relationships.
  • The theory of 'transformative justice' advocates for nonviolent solutions to wrongdoing, emphasizing accountability without punishment.

Psychology

  • Practicing nonviolence can lead to improved mental health, by reducing stress associated with conflict.
  • Conflict resolution training often includes nonviolent approaches, teaching skills to manage disagreements peacefully.
  • Studies reveal that individuals who adopt nonviolent beliefs may cultivate greater empathy and compassion.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Henry David Thoreau argued for civil disobedience as a nonviolent means of resisting unjust laws.
  • The teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized love and nonviolence as powerful tools for social change.
  • Nonviolence is often linked to the concept of altruism, where individuals act for the benefit of others without seeking personal gain.

Translations

Translations of the word "nonviolence" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não-violência

🇮🇳 अहिंसा

🇩🇪 Gewaltlosigkeit

🇮🇩 tanpa kekerasan

🇺🇦 ненаціональність

🇵🇱 nieprzemoc

🇯🇵 非暴力

🇫🇷 non-violence

🇪🇸 no violencia

🇹🇷 şiddetsizlik

🇰🇷 비폭력

🇸🇦 لاعنف

🇨🇿 nenásilí

🇸🇰 nenásilie

🇨🇳 非暴力

🇸🇮 nenasilje

🇮🇸 ofbeldisleysi

🇰🇿 зорлық-зомбылықсыздық

🇬🇪 არაძალადობა

🇦🇿 şiddətsizlik

🇲🇽 no violencia

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,276, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.