Politics, Morality, Identity: An Intimate Quest

The articles contained in this volume cover a wide range of issues that confronted a person keen on engaging with his times. Inspired by leaders like Gandhi and Lohia, these write-ups are candid reflections on the issues of democracy and socialism from the perspective of an activist thinker. The autobiographical pieces bring out the depth and intensity of an idealist who believes in the possibility of justice and dignity, equity, non-violence and democracy in the world. The ideological articles give an exposition on the grand vision of a comprehensive democracy captured in the phrase Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. In essence this book is an intimate journey on the path to a better world that cherishes the ideals of democracy and socialism.

These articles have been written at different times and in varying contexts. At places, these may seem to address an issue that is specific to the period in which it was written. But they continue to be relevant for our times and contain deep insights from both practical and ideological viewpoints. The thrust of the articles is more to the practical than academic, inclusive than polemical, open and frank than circumspect and cautious. Some of the articles have been co-authored with leading thinkers and social activists.

Away from the rhetorical, it embraces the intensely honest expression of personal experience as its stylistic hallmark. The simplicity and directness of approach immediately strikes a chord with the dreamer and the activist, in fact, it abolishes this duality quite effectively. This volume will, no doubt, serve as a conscientious companion to all those who are moved by the urge for social-change and believe that a ‘better world is possible’.

New Delhi, 10th January, 2004

• Growing Up As a Socialist

• Kulshresht:The Quest of a Young Dalit

• Politics, the Non-Party Political Process and Morality: Some Reflections

• Some Reflections on Funding and Voluntarism

• Combating the Twin Phenomena: Curruption and Communalism

• A Minimalist Perspective:

   Making Institutions Compatible with Southern Movement Aspirations for a Democratic Order

• Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: A Global Alliance for Comprehensive Democracy in the Era of Globalisation