How do the psychological profiles of Gandhi and Godse differ?

The psychological profiles of Mahatma Gandhi and Nathuram Godse represent two completely opposite poles of Indian history, embodying conflicting ideologies and psychological traits. Their struggle was not merely political but deeply psychological.

Mahatma Gandhi: Moral Perfectionism and Self-Transcendence

Gandhi’s personality is characterized by 'Moral Perfectionism' and 'Self-Transcendence'. Key aspects of his profile include:

• Sublimation of Aggression: Rather than suppressing his basic instincts, Gandhi practiced 'sublimation,' turning aggressive impulses into a creative and non-violent force. For him, non-violence was the highest form of mental strength, not cowardice.

• High Cognitive Functioning: From a neurological perspective, Gandhi’s practices of meditation and fasting strengthened his Prefrontal Cortex (the area responsible for logic and control), allowing him to override the Amygdala (the center for fear and anger) and suppress violent impulses.

• Internal Locus of Control: Gandhi believed that by changing himself and enduring suffering (Self-suffering), he could change the world. His pursuit was the search for moral truth through dialogue and the "change of heart" of his opponents.

• Superego and Moral Courage: His ability to remain calm while facing physical harm is seen by psychologists as the highest state of the 'Superego'. Even at the moment of his death, his utterance of "He Ram" demonstrated a state of unshakable mental balance.

Nathuram Godse: Ideological Rigidity and Resentment

Godse’s profile is defined by 'Ideological Rigidity' and a deep sense of resentment. His psychological state was marked by:

• Identity Crisis and Victimhood: Godse suffered from 'Cognitive Dissonance' and a 'Victimhood Complex'. He perceived Gandhi’s principle of non-violence as a threat to Hindu identity, leading him to believe that "assassination" was the only solution.

• Messiah Complex and Splitting: Godse exhibited a 'Messiah Complex,' believing he was a "protector" for whom killing was a justified duty for a "greater cause". He practiced 'Splitting' (Black and White thinking), viewing the world only in terms of "patriots" or "traitors," which left him unable to understand political nuance.

• External Locus of Control: Unlike Gandhi, Godse believed the problem was external (residing in Gandhi himself) and that peace could only be achieved by eliminating that external element.

• Shadow Projection: Godse projected his own frustrations and "shadow" (darker side) onto Gandhi, viewing him as a 'Failed Father Figure'. His act is compared to a distorted political version of an 'Oedipus Complex,' where a rebellious son strikes the father he blames for his problems.