Indian Political Thought- An Advance Study

Description

Indian Political Thought comprises Classical Thought, National Thought, and Modern Indian Thought. This course will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of political thought in India from ancient times to the modern era.

Course Duration: This course is designed for one academic semester or approximately 15 weeks.

Course Description: This course aims to explore the rich tapestry of Indian political thought through the ages. It delves into the classical, national, and modern periods, highlighting the evolution of political ideas, philosophies, and their socio-cultural contexts. Students will examine key texts, thinkers, and ideologies that have shaped India's political landscape.

Week 1-2: Introduction to Indian Political Thought

• Historical context and significance of Indian political thought

• Diverse cultural and philosophical traditions in India

Classical Thought I (Week 3-6): Week 3-4: Classical Political Thought in Ancient India

• Introduction to classical political thought

• Key concepts from Manu, Arthashastra (Kautilya's Arthashastra)

• Ideas on statecraft, governance, and ethics

Week 5-6: Classical Political Thought - Alternative Traditions

• Jain and Buddhist political thought

• Influence of Dharmashastras (Manusmriti) on ancient Indian society

• The idea of Dharma in governance

National Thought I (Week 7-9): Week 7: Rise of Nationalism and Political Thought

• The impact of British colonialism

• Early nationalist thinkers - Raja Ram Mohan Roy, and others

• Indian response to colonial rule

Week 8-9: Political Ideas of Mahatma Gandhi

• Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and Satyagraha

• Swaraj and self-governance

• Gandhi's influence on the Indian independence movement

National Thought II (Week 10-11): Week 10: Political Ideas of Jawaharlal Nehru

• Nehruvian vision of a modern India

• Secularism and socialism

• Role in shaping the Indian Constitution

Week 11: Post-Independence Political Thought

• Discussion on other prominent thinkers like B.R. Ambedkar, Sardar Patel, and M.N. Roy

• The framing of the Indian Constitution

Modern Indian Thought I (Week 12-13): Week 12: Political Thought in the Post-Independence Era

• Political ideologies during the early years of the Indian Republic

• The debate between the Nehruvian and Patelvian models

Week 13: Contemporary Political Thinkers

• Critical examination of contemporary political thought in India

• The role of think tanks and scholars in shaping public policy

Modern Indian Thought II (Week 14-15): Week 14: Current Challenges and Debates in Indian Politics

• Contemporary issues like secularism, federalism, and governance

• Political discourse in the age of globalization

Week 15: Course Recap and Future Directions

• Reflect on the evolution of Indian political thought

• Encourage students to explore further research in the field

Assessment:

• Weekly readings and reflection papers

• Mid-term examination

• Group projects on key thinkers and their contributions

• Final research paper on a relevant topic within Indian political thought

Recommended Texts:

• "Arthashastra" by Kautilya

• "The Essential Writings of Mahatma Gandhi" edited by Raghavan Iyer

• "Discovery of India" by Jawaharlal Nehru

• "The Framing of India's Constitution" by B.R. Ambedkar

• Additional readings and articles on specific topics

TAKE THIS COURSE