Religious Faith, Ideology, Citizenship

This insightful book explores the interplay between religion, state, and citizenship, emphasizing the importance of their interconnectedness in modern society.

In Religious Faith, Ideology, Citizenship, the intricate dynamics of religion, state, and citizenship are examined within the framework of postcolonial nation-states striving for democratic secularism. The author highlights how these three realms interact, shaped by both historical contexts and individual choices. This exploration reveals the complexities of their relationships and emphasizes that understanding these connections is crucial for comprehending modern political landscapes.

The book presents a collection of essays that delve into the interconnections between faith, governance, and political actors. It addresses a variety of historical narratives and ideologies, ranging from Gandhian civic engagement to radical free thought during the colonial era in India. Additionally, it discusses liberation theologies rooted in lived experiences of oppression, alongside the universalism offered by a broader interpretation of Islam. By focusing on gender and caste as essential analytical lenses, the essays propose that true equality and justice depend on the vibrant exchanges among the civic, religious, and state spheres, rather than their rigid separation.

Moving beyond traditional binaries, such as the secular versus the communal, particularly in the Indian context, Religious Faith, Ideology, Citizenship engages with contemporary debates surrounding secularism in the 21st century across various regions, including the West, South, and Southeast Asia. This comprehensive examination invites readers to reconsider the roles of faith and ideology in shaping citizenship and governance today.