66 pages • 2 hours read
Amartya SenThe Argumentative Indian: Writings on Indian History, Culture and Identity
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In The Argumentative Indian: Writings on Indian History, Culture and Identity (2005), Nobel laureate Amartya Sen explores India's rich tradition of public debate and intellectual pluralism through a collection of essays that delve into its history, philosophy, and culture, addressing the significance of rational discourse, pluralism, religion's societal role, and identity complexities in both historical and global contexts. The book refers to colonialism and colonial atrocities committed in India.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Amartya Sen's The Argumentative Indian receives praise for its insightful exploration of India's history, culture, and identity through a collection of essays. Critics commend its intellectual depth and relevance, although some find the prose dense and the arguments occasionally repetitive. Overall, it's celebrated as a thought-provoking and essential read for understanding India's pluralistic heritage.
Who Should Read The Argumentative Indian?
A reader who enjoys The Argumentative Indian by Amartya Sen is intellectually curious, particularly about Indian history, culture, and identity. They likely appreciate works like Edward Said's Orientalism or Pankaj Mishra's From the Ruins of Empire, valuing nuanced, analytical discussions on postcolonial thought and socio-political philosophy.