Modern India's Strategic Advantage to the United States: Her Twin Strengths in Himsa and Ahimsa

摘要

The notions of just war (jus-in-bello1) and just peace (jus-in-pace2), with himsa (the use of force) and ahimsa (nonviolence) are not new. They were conceptualized in Eastern Philosophy in early Hindu texts like the Vedas3 and the Bhagavad Gita.4 The theoretical concept of himsa and the Gandhian principle of ahimsa has been actualized in modern India. Both streams of thinking are useful strategic options, alone and/or in tandem. As India emerges as a valuable player in the global balance of power in the Middle East and Asia, it is important to the United States as the global superpower to fully recognize India's strengths and potential as a regional ally in just war and just peace. Both countries have more similarities than differences and their collaborative action can lead to a more democratic and peaceful world society.