Prophets Facing Backward

Prophets Facing Backward PDF Author: Meera Nanda
Publisher: Rutgers University Press
ISBN: 9780813533582
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 334

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Book Description
The leading voices in science studies have argued that modern science reflects dominant social interests of Western society. Following this logic, postmodern scholars have urged postcolonial societies to develop their own "alternative sciences" as a step towards "mental decolonization". These ideas have found a warm welcome among Hindu nationalists who came to power in India in the early 1990s. In this passionate and highly original study, Indian-born author Meera Nanda reveals how these well-meaning but ultimately misguided ideas are enabling Hindu ideologues to propagate religious myths in the guise of science and secularism. At the heart of Hindu supremacist ideology, Nanda argues, lies a postmodernist assumption: that each society has its own norms of reasonableness, logic, rules of evidence, and conception of truth, and that there is no non-arbitrary, culture-independent way to choose among these alternatives. What is being celebrated as "difference" by postmodernists, however, has more often than not been the source of mental bondage and authoritarianism in non-Western cultures. The "Vedic sciences" currently endorsed in Indian schools, colleges, and the mass media promotes the same elements of orthodox Hinduism that have for centuries deprived the vast majority of Indian people of their full humanity. By denouncing science and secularization, the left was unwittingly contributing to what Nanda calls "reactionary modernism." In contrast, Nanda points to the Dalit, or untouchable, movement as a true example of an "alternative science" that has embraced reason and modern science to challenge traditional notions of hierarchy.

Prophets of The New India

Prophets of The New India PDF Author: Romain Rolland
Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan
ISBN:
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 572

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Book Description
Embark on a journey of intellectual discovery and cultural exploration with "Prophets Of The New India" by Romain Rolland, a captivating exploration of the lives and ideas of India's visionary thinkers and spiritual leaders. Join Rolland as he delves into the rich tapestry of Indian philosophy, religion, and culture, offering readers profound insights into the forces shaping the destiny of the world's largest democracy. Discover the lives and teachings of some of India's most influential thinkers, from the ancient sages of the Upanishads to the modern-day visionaries of the independence movement. Through Rolland's insightful commentary and vivid storytelling, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual and intellectual currents that have shaped India's past, present, and future. With its blend of biography, philosophy, and cultural analysis, "Prophets Of The New India" offers readers a comprehensive overview of India's intellectual and spiritual heritage. Rolland's deep respect for Indian culture and his keen insights into its complexities make this book essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the soul of the world's most populous nation. Since its publication, "Prophets Of The New India" has been hailed as a classic work of cultural anthropology, praised for its breadth of scope, depth of insight, and lyrical prose. Rolland's ability to distill complex ideas into accessible language and his genuine appreciation for Indian culture have earned him a place among the foremost interpreters of Indian thought in the Western world. As you immerse yourself in the pages of "Prophets Of The New India," you'll find yourself drawn into a world of intellectual ferment and spiritual awakening, where the voices of the past echo in the present and the dreams of the future take shape. Rolland's evocative portraits of India's prophets and visionaries will inspire you to explore the depths of your own soul and embrace the wisdom of the ages. In conclusion, "Prophets Of The New India" is a profound and illuminating exploration of India's intellectual and spiritual heritage that will enrich the lives of readers of all backgrounds. Whether you're a student of Indian philosophy, a lover of world literature, or simply someone with a curiosity about the human spirit, this book offers a transformative journey into the heart of Indian culture. Don't miss your chance to discover the prophets and visionaries who have shaped the destiny of India and the world. Grab your copy of "Prophets Of The New India" by Romain Rolland and embark on a journey of intellectual discovery and cultural enlightenment that will broaden your horizons and deepen your understanding of the human experience.

Ramakrishna: Prophet of New India

Ramakrishna: Prophet of New India PDF Author: Ramakrishna
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 332

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Book Description


Prophets Facing Backward

Prophets Facing Backward PDF Author: Meera Nanda
Publisher: Rutgers University Press
ISBN: 9780813533582
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 334

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Book Description
The leading voices in science studies have argued that modern science reflects dominant social interests of Western society. Following this logic, postmodern scholars have urged postcolonial societies to develop their own "alternative sciences" as a step towards "mental decolonization". These ideas have found a warm welcome among Hindu nationalists who came to power in India in the early 1990s. In this passionate and highly original study, Indian-born author Meera Nanda reveals how these well-meaning but ultimately misguided ideas are enabling Hindu ideologues to propagate religious myths in the guise of science and secularism. At the heart of Hindu supremacist ideology, Nanda argues, lies a postmodernist assumption: that each society has its own norms of reasonableness, logic, rules of evidence, and conception of truth, and that there is no non-arbitrary, culture-independent way to choose among these alternatives. What is being celebrated as "difference" by postmodernists, however, has more often than not been the source of mental bondage and authoritarianism in non-Western cultures. The "Vedic sciences" currently endorsed in Indian schools, colleges, and the mass media promotes the same elements of orthodox Hinduism that have for centuries deprived the vast majority of Indian people of their full humanity. By denouncing science and secularization, the left was unwittingly contributing to what Nanda calls "reactionary modernism." In contrast, Nanda points to the Dalit, or untouchable, movement as a true example of an "alternative science" that has embraced reason and modern science to challenge traditional notions of hierarchy.

Swami Vivekananda : Patriot-Prophet A Study

Swami Vivekananda : Patriot-Prophet A Study PDF Author: Datta Bhupendranath
Publisher: Abhishek Publications
ISBN: 9356522669
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 462

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Book Description
Swami Vivekananda was one of India's greatest spiritual leaders and a revered figure in India's history and culture. Swami Vivekananda strived to inculcate national consciousness among the people. His message was universal and was based on rationality and righteousness.

Prophets of the new India

Prophets of the new India PDF Author: Romain Rolland
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Hindu philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 683

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Book Description


The Birth of New India

The Birth of New India PDF Author: Annie Besant
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Education
Languages : en
Pages : 454

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Book Description


Visions of Greater India

Visions of Greater India PDF Author: Yorim Spoelder
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
ISBN: 100940315X
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 347

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Book Description
'Greater India' was a transimperial, Indocentric research paradigm that informed the colonial recovery of the ancient past in Central and Southeast Asia. Ancient India was postulated as the fount of an expansive classicism – an actor in world history on a par with ancient Greece and Rome. Under the Greater India movement, the scholarly quest for 'India in Asia' became tied to anti-colonial, pedagogical, nationalist and Asianist agendas. Yet although it provided a potent anti-colonial imaginary, the movement also bolstered visions of Indian exceptionalism and energized Hindu nationalist ideas of India as a civilizing, colonizing power. Speaking directly to debates that define and divide India today, this is essential reading for those interested in the legacies of Orientalist scholarship and interwar visions of Indian internationalism. This title is part of the Flip it Open Programme and may also be available Open Access. Check our website Cambridge Core for details.

Rāmakṛṣṇa Paramahaṁsa

Rāmakṛṣṇa Paramahaṁsa PDF Author: Narasingha Sil
Publisher: BRILL
ISBN: 9004644695
Category : Art
Languages : en
Pages : 201

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Book Description
This study seeks answers to several questions hitherto ignored by most biographers of Rāmakṛṣṇa: what really accounted for his relentless admonitions against sex life? What made him think that he was god or avatār, that is, a divine incarnation? And finally, why and how did he convince people that he was divine

Prophets of Rebellion

Prophets of Rebellion PDF Author: Michael Adas
Publisher: UNC Press Books
ISBN: 1469610027
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 272

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Book Description
Adas explores the relationship between millenarianism and violent protest by focusing on five case studies representing a wide range of social, political, and economic systems. The rebellions examined are: Netherlands East Indies (1825-30), New Zealand (c. 1864-67), Central India (1895-1900), German East Africa (1903-6), and Burma (1930-32). Arranged topically to emphasize comparative patterns, the study analyzes causes, leaders, organization, failure, and the impact on the individual society. Originally published in 1979. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.

Prophet and Statesmen in Crafting Democracy in India

Prophet and Statesmen in Crafting Democracy in India PDF Author: Fabio Leone
Publisher: Lexington Books
ISBN: 1498569374
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 319

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Book Description
Drawing on expert works, early political and government records, and personal correspondence, Fabio Leone examines the most commonly cited explanations of the unlikely and puzzling democratization of India. He concludes that the creation of Indian democracy is best understood when assessing the combination of capacities and behaviors of the Indian political leadership. Through a theoretical framework, he demonstrates that Indian democratization was the result of successful interplay between a limited number of key leaders, with the main player being Jawaharlal Nehru. Prophet and Statesmen in Crafting Democracy in India offers an explanation of the origins ofIndian democracy that will interest scholars and students of comparative politics, democratization, political leadership, and South Asian politics and history.