Moderates vs. Extremists



Published on 04 Dec 2025


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

Tags:
History & Culture

Keywords:
COMPARING IDEOLOGIES Moderates Extremists

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1

Topics:
Freedom Struggle

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