"The Argumentative Indian" by Amartya Sen

See review:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article...673468,00.html

I recently found this excellent collection of essays by the revered Nobel Prize Economist. Erudite but very readable.

Subjects include Indian's long tradition of open discourses which is the root of democracy, secularism and religious tolerance (with much credits went to Akbar, the great Mughal emperor), scientific enquiries, etc. He weaves in historical, religious, literary texts and contemporary politics to support his points. Very insightful reading and may be controversial to some conservative, nationalist Hindus.

An interesting point he made about the West's perception of India's forte lies mainly in mystic/spiritual developments was the product of British colonialism. Being colonized and degraded in most facets of their culture and traditions, the Indians try to find a niche to excel in. And hence mysticism and spiritualism was the choice of distinction and pride.

I highly recommend this book.

Here's more insightful review of Amartya Sen's book:

http://books.guardian.co.uk/reviews/...ticle_continue