What is the Difference Between Moderate and Extremist?

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The main difference between moderates and extremists lies in their ideologies and approaches to life. Here are some key distinctions between the two:

  • Moderates:
  • Possess different ideologies and perspectives, taking an objective view and considering numerous opinions and viewpoints.
  • Take time to decide and understand how things impact and influence other people.
  • Seek to bring forth decisions that benefit everyone rather than a single individual.
  • Believe in gradual reforms and have faith in the British rulers to eventually address the plight of the Indian masses.
  • Some prominent moderate leaders include Dadabai Naoroji, A.O. Hume, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and G Subramania Aiyer.
  • Extremists:
  • Firmly believe that the British had no interest in the Indian people in mind, as evidenced by their lackluster response during crises like plague or famine.
  • Have a rigid mindset and consider their opinions as the only correct ones.
  • Radical in their approach, seeking complete independence from British rule.
  • Some prominent extremist leaders include Lala Lajpat Rai and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

In summary, moderates are individuals who consider various perspectives and beliefs, striving for gradual reforms and compromise, while extremists have a rigid mindset and advocate for more radical action. Both groups share a common goal of an independent India but differ in their methods and ideologies.

Comparative Table: Moderate vs Extremist

Here is a table summarizing the differences between moderates and extremists:

Parameter Moderates Extremists
Objective Greater autonomy and self-rule under British rule Complete independence from British rule
Ideology Liberalism, constitutional methods Strong opposition to British rule, nationalism
Social Base Zamindars, upper-middle-class Educated middle and lower classes
Methods of Agitation Prayer, Petition, Persuasion, Philanthropy More radical, extra-constitutional methods
Important Leaders Dadabai Naoroji, G Subramania Aiyer, Gopal Krishna Gokhale Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal
Views on British Rule Believed British rulers would eventually understand Indian citizens' plight Firmly against British rule, believed Brits had no interest in Indian people's welfare

Moderates and extremists represented two different ideological perspectives within the Indian National Congress. Moderates believed in liberalism, constitutional methods, and a more gradual approach to gaining autonomy from British rule. In contrast, extremists sought complete independence from British rule, using more radical methods to achieve their goals.