Plato, one of the foundational figures in Western philosophy, developed a unique and enduring methodology for exploring knowledge, ethics, politics, and metaphysics. His methodological contributions not only shaped classical Greek thought but also laid the groundwork for the evolution of philosophical inquiry across centuries. Plato’s methodology was deeply dialectical, reflective, and aimed at uncovering truth…
E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker’s Critique of Hinduism and Brahmanical Domination
Erode Venkata Ramaswamy Naicker, popularly known as Periyar, was a pioneering social reformer, rationalist, and political thinker who played a foundational role in critiquing the caste-based inequalities and religious orthodoxy prevalent in Indian society, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Born in 1879, Periyar emerged as a key figure in the anti-caste and anti-Brahmanical movements of the…
Describe the salient features of M.S. Golwalkar’s Hindu Nationalism
M.S. Golwalkar (1906–1973), the second Sarsanghchalak (Chief of the RSS), was one of the most influential figures in the ideological development of Hindu nationalism in post-independence India. His ideas, articulated primarily in his books We, or Our Nationhood Defined (1939) and Bunch of Thoughts (1966), continue to shape the ideological framework of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak…
B.R. Ambedkar’s Critique of the Caste System
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (1891–1956) is widely recognized as one of the most influential social reformers and architects of modern India. As a champion of the rights of the Dalits (historically referred to as “untouchables”), Ambedkar’s critique of the caste system was profound, intellectual, and revolutionary. His analysis of the caste system not only challenged its…
Sri Aurobindo’s Vision of Nationalism
Sri Aurobindo (1872–1950), one of India’s most influential nationalist leaders, philosophers, and spiritual thinkers, developed a distinctive and profound vision of nationalism that blended spiritual ideas with the political and social aspirations of the Indian people. His philosophy of nationalism evolved during his time as an active participant in the Indian freedom struggle and later…
Raja Ram Mohan Roy as a Social Reformer
Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772–1833) is often hailed as one of the foremost social reformers in 19th-century India. Known as the “Father of the Indian Renaissance,” his contributions to the social, cultural, and educational spheres were groundbreaking and transformative. His reforms laid the foundation for modern Indian thought and helped in shaping the trajectory of…
Describe the nature of state and sovereignty in Medieval India
The concept of the state and sovereignty in Medieval India underwent a significant transformation from the early medieval period to the later periods. The nature of the state during this era was not uniform; it was shaped by regional powers, the influence of Islam, the existence of various dynasties, and a complex relationship between religion…
Regional Cooperation in Contemporary International Relations
Regional cooperation is central to addressing the global challenges faced by states today, particularly in the areas of trade, security, and environmental sustainability. In contemporary international relations, regional cooperation has evolved into a significant tool for addressing shared problems and advancing collective interests, especially in an era of globalization. 1. Economic and Trade Cooperation Regional…
India’s Disarmament Policy
India’s disarmament policy has been shaped by its strategic and security concerns, as well as its desire for global peace and stability. While India has consistently advocated for nuclear disarmament and the reduction of conventional arms, its approach to disarmament has been shaped by its unique position as a non-signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty…
Discuss the emerging economic cooperation between India and Central Asia.
India’s relationship with Central Asia has grown in importance over the past few decades, particularly with the realization of the region’s strategic economic, geopolitical, and energy significance. Central Asia, located at the heart of the Eurasian landmass, is a critical region for India’s foreign policy, as it offers opportunities for economic cooperation, regional connectivity, and…
Explain India’s policies with other nations in South Asia.
India’s foreign policy toward South Asia has been shaped by its historical, cultural, geographical, and strategic interests. As the largest country in the region, India plays a dominant role in shaping the political, economic, and security landscape of South Asia. India’s approach to its neighbors is influenced by its goals of regional stability, economic integration,…
Indo-Russian relations since the mid-1990s
Indo-Russian relations have undergone significant changes since the mid-1990s, marked by evolving strategic, economic, and political engagement. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 created a new world order, with Russia emerging as an independent state. This transformation prompted India to recalibrate its foreign policy, shifting from a Soviet-centric approach to engaging with the…