Moderates vs. Extremists

Moderates

Extremists

Philosophy

• Gradual reform, constitutional methods

• Immediate self-rule, direct action

Leadership

• Leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Dadabhai Naoroji, Pherozeshah Mehta

• Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal

Approach to British Rule

• Sought cooperation with British

• aimed to achieve reforms through dialogue

• Advocated for direct confrontation and self-reliance

Methods of Protest

• Petitions, speeches, meetings, and resolutions

• Boycotts, Swadeshi movement, and sometimes violent protests

Goals

• Constitutional reforms, increased representation in government

• Complete self-rule (Swaraj), end of British colonial rule

Economic Views

• Promoted gradual economic reforms, focused on issues like poverty and taxes

• Advocated for economic independence, promotion of indigenous industries

Social Views

• Emphasized social reforms through legislation and education

• Emphasized national pride and cultural revival

Belief in British Intentions

• Believed in the good intentions of British rule

• sought to work within its framework

• Distrusted British intentions 

• believed in self-reliance and self-governance

Influence of Western Ideas

• Emphasized liberal Western ideas like democracy and rights

• Drew inspiration from Indian cultural heritage and history

Role in Indian National Congress

• Dominant in the early years of the Congress (1885-1905)

• Gained prominence in the early 20th century, especially around 1905-1919

View on Mass Mobilization

• Reluctant to involve the masses extensively

• Preferred elite-led reforms

• Actively involved the masses

• promoted mass movements and participation

Criticism

• Criticized for being too moderate and accommodating to British interests

• Criticized for being too radical and sometimes violent

Impact on Indian Independence

• Created a platform for political debate and gradual reform

• Intensified the struggle for independence, leading to more assertive demands