Science, Spirituality and the Modernization of India (Anthem South Asian Studies (Hardcover))

'‘Science, Spirituality and the Modernisation of India'explores the lively transaction between science and spirituality in India over the last 150 years. The book addresses the tension between science and spirituality; how some key figures in India explored the relationship between the two in the very process of trying to reform their society; significant areas of research in which both are both deeply implicated; and their relationship with gender and social justice.'

Spirituality played a key role in the construction of Indian modernity. While science has certainly been an agent of modernization in India and other non-Western countries, what makes Indian modernity somewhat special is that spiritual leaders have also been instrumental in the process. Moreover, leading Indian scientists and spiritualists have recognized the immense potential for dialogue between the two disciplines. Post-colonial India, with its ready access to a holistic spirituality and significant achievements in science and technology, is a fertile site for such a dialogue.

Each of the book’s four sections addresses specific themes: (1) The tension not just between science and spirituality, but also between the East and West; (2) how some key figures in India became carriers of modern consciousness, and explored the relationship between science and spirituality in the very process of trying to reform their society; (3) significant areas of research in which science and spirituality are both deeply implicated; and (4) the relationship of both scientific and spiritual practice with gender and social justice.

Papers Presented At The International Conference On Science And Spirituality In Modern India, Held At New Delhi During 5-7 February 2006. Edited By Makarand Paranjape. Includes Bibliographical References. 'Science, Spirituality and the Modernisation of India' explores the lively transaction between science and spirituality during the last 150 years in India