International Encyclopaedia of Non-Violence

Mahatma Gandhi often used to say that human destiny has constantly been on the move towards nonviolence. This view has been challenged by many on the basis of the contention that even after a long period of Gandhi’s experiments with nonviolence, the world society is currently witnessing an ever more serious phase of human history in which more wars have taken place, new forms of conflict have emerged, civil wars are rampant, human rights are violated, and human poverty is on the increase. This indeed is a correct description of the current phase of human history. However, what is also true is the fact that conditions are developing in which there is on the one hand an awareness of the need for removing the root causes of violence and, on the other, a growing revulsion, though not so manifest, against violence. An important point about this awareness of the need for removing the root causes of violence is that it touches the whole global society, in as much as its concern is for all the problems of all peoples.
One way to look at the question of the movement of world history towards nonviolence therefore is to recognize the significance of the innumerable grassroots movements going on in different parts of the world. These movements are essentially in the nature of a demand for justice in all segments of life (social, political and economic) and for ending exploitation of all kinds which is the essence of violence.
The essays contained in this pioneering Encyclopaedia are inspired by a commitment to this very new vision. Each contributor has brought rich insight to bear on his or her analysis based on painstaking research and practical experience gained in the field. The fact that the contributors are drawn from countries from all parts of the world indicates that nonviolence has now become a global concern.
A well integrated mixture of theoretical analysis and case studies from different countries, the Encyclopaedia examines nonviolent direct action, political action, economic sanctions, and social movements as alternative remedies in the struggle for better life.
The International Encyclopaedia of Nonviolence is a compilation of a collection of essays designed to encourage readers to think differently about the world and the prospects for peace. Based on vigorous scholarly work, these essays arranged around five major themes nevertheless have been written to make important points succinctly, and as much as in a simple language. The bundles of essays fresh, timely, diverse, and controversial are sure to provoke meaningful discussion and debate among the scholars of the world.
The International Encyclopaedia of Nonviolence is the first such reference work bringing together contributors from all over the world and provide a thorough insight into the underlined concepts of nonviolence. It is only appropriate that first such reference publication on nonviolence is published from India, especially at the close of the millennium when the apostle of peace and nonviolence Mahatma Gandhi has been recognised by the world community as the “Person of the Century”.