Indian Secularism and Religious Freedom - Mapping the Cross-Pressures

The book intricately examines secularity in India, presenting it as a complex tapestry of social struggles which introduces assumptions not shared by traditional Hindu culture. These cross-pressures influence both societal and legal realms, affecting how secularism is implemented. The work suggests that these pressures originate from the doctrines that shape India's social fabric and culture. It investigates whether secularism inherently assumes specific theological or cultural doctrines, thus affecting its cultural manifestation. By focusing on the intersection of religious freedom with human rights and legislation, concerning the contentious issue of religious conversions, the book delves into these complexities. The Ghent school attempts to address these tensions by advocating for a Hindu interpretation of religious freedom. However, acknowledging the truth claims of all religious beliefs offers a better approach to mediating between the constitution and Hindu tradition. Additionally, it highlights how Christian converts have developed adaptive mechanisms that blend their faith with traditional Hindu culture. This synthesis of beliefs and practices, or hybrid lifestyles, may provide a potential path forward, reflecting a response to the experienced cross-pressures.

Product details

• Authors: John , Aruthuckal Varughese John, Aruthuckal Varughese (Dean of Faculty John
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Release: 20.02.2025, delayed
• EAN: 9780198935124
• ISBN: 978-0-19-893512-4
• No. of pages: 240
• Series: Religion and Democracy
• Subjects: Non-fiction book > Philosophy, religion > Religion: general, reference works; Social sciences, law, business > Political science > Political theories and the history of ideas; Political Ideologies, POLITICAL SCIENCE / Political Process / General, POLITICAL SCIENCE / Political Ideologies / General, RELIGION / Institutions & Organizations, RELIGION / Theology, Theology, Political structure & processes, Religious life and practice, Religious institutions and organizations, Political ideologies and movements, Political structure and processes, Religious life & practice, Religious institutions & organizations