Meaning: This quote by Mohandas Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi, encapsulates a fundamental truth about the nature of truth and error. Gandhi was a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule and a proponent of nonviolent civil disobedience. His words carry significant weight due to his influential role in shaping the course of history and inspiring people around the world.

In this quote, Gandhi is highlighting the inherent nature of truth and error, independent of popular opinion or visibility. The first part of the quote, "An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation," suggests that the prevalence or widespread dissemination of an idea does not transform it into a truth. This idea is particularly relevant in today's age of information overload and the rapid spread of misinformation through various channels. Despite the proliferation of falsehoods, they do not magically become true simply because they are repeated or shared by many.

Moreover, Gandhi's assertion, "nor does truth become error because nobody sees it," emphasizes the enduring nature of truth regardless of its recognition or acknowledgment. This part of the quote underscores the idea that truth exists independently of whether it is acknowledged, accepted, or visible to others. It serves as a reminder that the absence of widespread recognition or visibility does not diminish the validity of the truth.

Gandhi's words resonate with the timeless struggle between truth and falsehood, and they offer a guiding principle for discerning the veracity of information in an age of pervasive misinformation. In a world where misinformation can spread rapidly and widely through social media and other platforms, Gandhi's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of critical thinking and discernment.

This quote also aligns with Gandhi's broader philosophy of truth and nonviolence, known as Satyagraha. Central to Satyagraha is the pursuit of truth and the recognition that truth is a force more powerful than any physical or material weapon. Gandhi believed that individuals could awaken the conscience of others through the pursuit and demonstration of truth, even in the face of opposition or adversity.

Furthermore, the quote reflects Gandhi's emphasis on the individual's moral responsibility to seek and uphold truth, regardless of external influences or prevailing opinions. It underscores the idea that truth is not contingent upon the validation or agreement of the masses but exists as an absolute and immutable principle.

In a world where misinformation and disinformation can have far-reaching consequences, Gandhi's quote serves as a call to action for individuals to uphold the principles of truth and critical thinking. It encourages people to resist the temptation to accept information uncritically based on its prevalence or visibility and instead to seek out and uphold the truth, even when it may be unpopular or inconvenient.

Overall, Mohandas Gandhi's quote encapsulates a timeless and universal truth about the nature of truth and error. It serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of truth, independent of popular opinion or visibility, and highlights the individual's responsibility to discern and uphold truth in the face of misinformation and falsehoods.