Third Class In Indian Railways Review

Third Class In Indian Railways By M K Gandhi 

                 …appeal has gone not to the heart but to the stomach

It is not easy to empathize with people until you put yourself in their shoes; So was Gandhi’s maxim. This book is a compilation of his letters and essays on Swadeshi movement, Co-operation, Ahimsa and national dress.

Unlike several political philosophers Gandhi does not talk using larger concepts; he does not burden people with words. He is eloquent and simple.He talks about smallest things like closets and sanitation which have immediate concern to individuals; he is equally concerned with the nature of pestilent activities that are hovering over the nation. The language used is grammatically sound and simple. The author appears to be well read; he uses phrases and idioms at apt places. Another point that will appeal to reader is the politeness of Gandhi when he addresses people.Even if he’s strongly opposed to a certain viewpoint, he does not disparage the concerned person.There is a certain divinity attached to the text which does not come out of its religious inclination but the simplicity of what is true for Gandhi. The author does not begrudge his criticizers; he makes his point clear with reason and logic. This book is the crux of what Gandhi believed in; what he vouched for till the end of his life. Even a person living in a foreign country will appreciate the principles that it elaborates upon.

This book is recommended for readers interested in Political Philosophy.