Question

Answer of the following question in 100–120 words:

Mandela said, “People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love.” Discuss.

Answer 1

Nelson Mandela's statement, “People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love,” highlights the idea that hatred is not innate but acquired through societal influences. He believed that no one is born with hatred towards others based on race, religion, or background. Instead, people absorb prejudices from their surroundings. However, just as hatred is learned, love, compassion, and respect can also be instilled through education and positive influences.

Mandela’s life itself exemplifies this philosophy. Despite enduring decades of racial discrimination and imprisonment, he chose the path of forgiveness and reconciliation rather than revenge. His belief in love over hatred played a key role in uniting South Africa after years of apartheid.