Hindu Nationalism and the Rise of Ethnic Democracy: A Book Review

Modi's India: Hindu Nationalism and the Rise of Ethnic Democracy

by Christophe Jaffrelot

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8506 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	647 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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In their book 'Hindu Nationalism and the Rise of Ethnic Democracy', Sumit Ganguly and Sagarika Dutt provide a comprehensive analysis of the rise of Hindu nationalism in India and its implications for democracy. The authors argue that Hindu nationalism is a form of ethnic democracy, which is a type of democracy that privileges the majority ethnic group over other groups. They contend that this form of democracy is incompatible with the principles of liberal democracy, which protect the rights of all citizens regardless of their ethnicity.

The Rise of Hindu Nationalism

The authors trace the origins of Hindu nationalism to the early 20th century, when it emerged as a reaction to British colonial rule. They argue that Hindu nationalism was initially a form of cultural nationalism, which sought to promote Hindu culture and values. However, over time, it evolved into a more political form of nationalism, which sought to establish a Hindu state.

The authors identify a number of factors that have contributed to the rise of Hindu nationalism in recent years. These include the economic liberalization of India, which has led to increased competition and insecurity among Hindus, and the rise of social media, which has provided a platform for Hindu nationalists to spread their message.

The Implications for Democracy

The authors argue that the rise of Hindu nationalism has serious implications for democracy in India. They contend that Hindu nationalism is a form of majoritarianism, which means that it privileges the majority ethnic group over other groups. This, they argue, is incompatible with the principles of liberal democracy, which protect the rights of all citizens regardless of their ethnicity.

The authors also argue that Hindu nationalism is a form of ethnocracy, which means that it is a government that is controlled by a single ethnic group. They contend that this form of government is inherently unstable and can lead to violence and discrimination against minority groups.

In their book, 'Hindu Nationalism and the Rise of Ethnic Democracy', Sumit Ganguly and Sagarika Dutt provide a timely and important analysis of the rise of Hindu nationalism in India. They argue that this form of nationalism is a threat to democracy in India and that it is important to understand its origins and implications. The book is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in the future of democracy in India.

Modi's India: Hindu Nationalism and the Rise of Ethnic Democracy

by Christophe Jaffrelot

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8506 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	647 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE