Indian Political Thought second edition

Description

The second edition of Indian Political Thought: Themes and Thinkers, edited by Himanshu Roy and Mahendra Prasad Singh, is an extensive compilation that offers a comprehensive analysis of the development of political thought in India. The book examines key themes in Indian political theory, as well as the contributions of prominent Indian political thinkers. This edition explores a wide range of political ideologies and perspectives that have influenced India's political landscape, from ancient to contemporary times. The editors bring together a collection of essays that analyze how these thinkers responded to the political, social, and cultural challenges of their times, with a focus on their impact on modern India. Some of the key thinkers discussed in the book include: Kautilya (Chanakya): His ideas on statecraft and governance, as seen in the Arthashastra, are examined in depth, particularly in relation to political realism and state control. Rabindranath Tagore: His thoughts on nationalism, identity, and the relationship between the individual and the state are explored. Mahatma Gandhi: His concepts of non-violence, satyagraha, and self-rule (Swaraj) are analyzed for their transformative impact on India's struggle for independence and their continuing relevance. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: His contributions to social justice, the concept of equality, and his role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution are discussed. Jawaharlal Nehru: The book examines Nehru's vision of democratic socialism, secularism, and the role of the state in the development of India. In addition to these thinkers, the book also considers lesser-known figures and their contributions to Indian political thought. It critically addresses important themes such as democracy, socialism, secularism, and nationalism, and traces how these ideas have evolved in the Indian context. The second edition includes updated chapters and deeper analyses of the evolving political thought in India, making it a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the ideological foundations of India's political system. Overall, Indian Political Thought: Themes and Thinkers provides a broad and in-depth understanding of the diverse political ideologies that have shaped India, offering a nuanced perspective on its political evolution from ancient times to the present.