Furies of Indian Communalism is a powerful and rigorous analysis of the growing phenomenon of Hindu communalism; which currently threatens to tear India apart. Placing the politics of Hindu nationalism and anti-Muslim hatred in a global context; Vanaik explains the specific nature and modernity of communalism; distinguishing it both from fascism and from merely religious extremism. In defending both the reality and the desirability of the secularization of Indian state and society; Vanaik engages in a rich and subtle examination of the relationship between religion and culture; critically appraising the contributions of Emile Durkheim; Charles Taylor and Anthony Giddens to questions of identity and modernity. Whilst rejecting simplistic readings of religion as nothing but ideology; Vanaik is scathing about the postmodernists and cultural essentialists who assert the inescapable centrality of religion to Indian culture and society. Moving beyond purely theoretical considerations; he assesses India’s political future; the possible obstacles to the development of communalism; and the forces that exist on the Left that might be brought into alliance to halt the march of chauvinism.
#2831248 in Books Osprey Publishing 1997-10-15 1997-10-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.79 x .56 x 7.29l; 1.30 #File Name: 1855327163224 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Mark GardunoTimely - I finished it before June 16th and imagined the time lineas it passed two hundred years ago.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Chandler WaterlooBy Roger KennedyWhat makes this book worthwhile is the author himself. Having written "Campaigns of Napolean" some years before that lengthy study was not able to devote much time to the Waterloo Campaign. This is not a detailed study insofar as tactics and doctrine are concerned; but some insightful comments are made about the leadership of both sides. The campaign and events leading up to it are also provided.Chandler stresses that Napolean may have had different reasons for choosing the French Commanders. True there were not as many of the old Marshalette around in 1815. Some wanted no more campaigning. Davout and Soult were probably ill-used in the posts they were given. They would have served far better as battlefield or army wing commanders. Chandler makes the argument that Napolean didn't want to share the glory of the campaign with anyone. After abdication a year before; he needed a clear success to show the European Monarchs he was back in power again. Ney and Grouchy were calculated risks in order to win a solo victory. Against Wellington and Blucher he should have known better; but Napolean's ego had got the better of him and he underestimated their abilities.Chandler does not put much faith in the argument that Bonny was ill that day. He believes he was a victim of his own arrogant genius. There were also a number of chance events that occurred which further hurt his cause. Chandler does not have too much to say about Wellington. Like many he criticizes his retention of forces at Hal; but on the other hand the Duke was not sure that Napolean would opt for a simple pounding match. The great emperor had been known for maneauver; and Wellington had to take this into possibility. Napolean comes in for criticism by not controlling the battle better; and by ignoring the advice of some French marshals who had experience against the British.Probably the main strength of this book is the detailed touring of the battlefields which Chandler provides. Even if a bit dated much of it should still be there for historical tourist. With 2015 events on the horizon that could make it an additional plus.4 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Another Chandler MasterpieceBy A CustomerOnce again David G. Chandler; one of the most prolific Napoleonic authors; has provided us with an excellent book. Although published in 1980; the recent republishing by Osprey has given people the opportunity to purchase it rather take it out of the library. I first read this book about six years ago when I took it out and this was the first major work I had read on Waterloo. Since then I have purchased a copy and reread it. I find this to be an invaluable resource on the Battle of Waterloo and provides the layman with an easily readable account of the battle. I have also read Hofschroer's new series on the battle and although I believe he has provided us with an interesting look at a overlooked subject--German involvement in the battle--it is still just that. Chandler's in my mind remains the ultimate guide to the battle. Call it what you may; Chandler writes a book from the victor's perspective; mainly the British perspective of the battle. Chandler after all is British and has every right to portray the British as the victors; they WON the battle for the Allies.
