This book investigates how the moral principles and non-violent methodologies of Mahatma Gandhi can be systematically applied to resolve contemporary conflicts. Mark Juergensmeyer, a scholar of sociology and religious studies, distills complex Gandhian philosophy into a practical framework. He argues that these methods are not merely historical artifacts but are functional tools for navigating disputes in personal, professional, and geopolitical spheres. By analyzing the mechanics of moral action, the author provides a structured approach for parties to transcend narrow self-interest in favor of mutually beneficial outcomes.

Experts and practitioners of mediation frequently cite this work as a highly accessible entry point for understanding the practical application of non-violent resistance. Readers often note that the text successfully bridges the gap between abstract philosophical concepts and concrete, everyday problem-solving strategies.