Critical Analysis - Inequality,Instability and Voice

  Inequality, Instability and Voice - Amartya Sen

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Overview

Introduction: Disparity, Volatility, and ExpressionWriter: Amartya SenAmartya Sen authored the essay 'Inequality, Instability and Voice'. 'The Argumentative Indian' is a compilation of works on Indian history, culture, and identity by the Nobel laureate in Economics.Sen discusses three topics in the article.

The three main topics are as follows:

📌The presence of inequality in Indian society and the pursuit of equality.

📌 The concept of unity and diversity in India.

📌 The importance of increased dedication to dialogue and solidarity in South Asia.

Inequalityity and Pursuit of Equanimity :

Amartya Sen observes that India has a history of poor social equality, with the country's caste system being one contributing factor. However, he acknowledges that throughout its history, the country has consistently demonstrated a culture of being accommodating towards outsiders, particularly in matters of religion.Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Parsees were all permitted to coexist under a policy of 'swikriti' or equal tolerance. Although he claims that this did not constitute an explicit endorsement of equality, it nevertheless implied  recognition and approval of these groups.

Additionally, he observes that despite more than five decades of independence, the political equality granted to all Indians by the Constitution has yet to result in social and economic equality. He observes that the Indian Constitution not only outlines fundamental rights but also stipulates some social and economic entitlements. 

The Argumentative Indian Tradition:          Advancements in these areas should be directed towards achieving greater equality.In addition, he recognizes the argumentative Indian heritage as a means to advance the pursuit of greater equality. Voices of opposition and individuals and organizations advocating against caste, class, and gender obstacles make a significant contribution in this domain.He believes that political factions advocating for increased equity for disadvantaged individuals should combine in order to advance their cause. Engaging in internal conflict would undermine their objective.

    Additionally, he asserts that the contemporary inclination towards heightened religious and communal affiliations has led to a rise in sectarian politics, thereby undermining the broader endeavor to promote equalitarian principles.In concluding this part, he asserts that the argumentative Indian tradition would be a valuable resource in the pursuit of equality. Individuals ought to express their opinions in opposition to inequality and asymmetry. "Silence poses a formidable threat to the pursuit of social justice," he asserts. The concept of unity and variety is prevalent in India.

The Unity in India :

     The section commences with an emphasis on the inter-community conversations held by Mughal Emperor Akbar in Agra during the 16th century. According to Sen, these debates focused on both the diversity of ideas in India and the necessity of dialogue among various groups. 

     He refutes the assertion that the British Raj played a role in the formation of India. India and its people have been present throughout history, from the ancient era of Alexander the Great to the present day. For ambitious and dynamic kings such as Chandragupta Maurya, Ashoka, Chandragupta Vikramaditya, Allauddin Khilji, Akbar, and even the British Indian Empire, their empire-building endeavors were considered successful only when they had established control over the majority of India. Sen asserts that the British Indian rulers have a more comprehensive understanding of India compared to one of the British prime ministers. According to Winston Churchill, India was not considered a country in the same way that the Equator is not considered a country.

Scholars and poetry : 

     Additionally, he highlights that Ujjain has historically served as the primary reference point for calculations in several Indian calendars. Noteworthy are the writings of Kalidas, a Sanskrit scholar from Ujjain, who composed the ancient epic Meghadutam. In his work, he eloquently described the varied allure and splendor seen throughout India.In addition to acknowledging Akbar's emphasis on the acceptance of diverse ideas and the need of discourse, it is worth mentioning the religion he established and the calendar he initiated. 

    Contribution of Akbar : 

     Akbar established the Din-i-Ilahi religion, which was a composite religion including elements from various different religions.'Tarikh-i-ilahi' aimed to establish a unified calendar for the whole Indian subcontinent. Although both of these endeavors were unsuccessful, Sen highly commends Akbar's efforts because they demonstrated a constructive pursuit of a comprehensive unity, along with a strong dedication to diversity.In his concluding remarks, he asserts that neither a uniform understanding of a unified India, nor a perspective that focuses on separate parts, can replace the concept of a diverse India. Furthermore, he asserts that the idea of a diverse India had already been firmly entrenched even before to Lord Clive's initiation of the British Raj in the nation.

     There is a need for a stronger dedication to communication and unity in South Asia.

Subcontinental issues : 

     The author highlights the partition of India into India and Pakistan, as well as the presence of other countries in what is now known as South Asia or the Indian subcontinent. Sen argues that, due to the extensive multicultural past of the sub-continent, it is imperative for the countries in the region to engage in discourse in order to foster regional solidarity, national unity, and social justice.He advocates for a constructive conversation between India and Pakistan. He supports intergovernmental and civil society-led contact between the two countries. The media can also contribute to the progress of the dialogue pathway.In addition, he prefers a similar strategy in India's interactions with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Conclusion:

     As the ancients called it, Fate was an unknown force that was always at work in politics and in people's personal lives. Talking things out is the best way to solve problems.