Hinduism and Modernity

This examination of Hinduism in the context of modernity will be of
interest to all students of Hinduism, as well as to those
interested in the sociology and history of religion.

• • Shows Hinduism to be a highly dynamic world-view which
    challenges western notions of modernity.

• Considers a broad range of topics including women, the caste
  system, the self, divinities and gurus.

• Contains up-to-date discussions of modern Hindu culture and
  beliefs.

Auteur
David Smith is Reader in Indian Religions at Lancaster University. He has published two books on classical Indian culture, Ratnakara's Haravijaya (1985) and The Dance of Siva (1996).

Texte du rabat
This innovative book offers a dynamic analysis of Hinduism in the perspective of Western notions of modernity. After reviewing definitions of modernity and Hinduism and looking at modernity in India, the author considers Hinduism in relation to Islam and the West. The second half of the book presents key aspects of Hinduism, ancient and modern, in the light of their contrast with modernity.

The scope of the book is extremely broad, covering topics such as Orientalism, women, goddesses, gods, and the central problem of contemporary Hinduism the rise of Hindu nationalism.

The book will be of interest not only to students of Hinduism but also to all those interested in the sociology of religion more broadly, and indeed everyone interested in the conjunction of modernity and tradition.

Résumé
This examination of Hinduism in the context of modernity will be of interest to all students of Hinduism, as well as to those interested in the sociology and history of religion.

• Shows Hinduism to be a highly dynamic world-view which challenges western notions of modernity.

• Considers a broad range of topics including women, the caste system, the self, divinities and gurus.

• Contains up-to-date discussions of modern Hindu culture and beliefs.

Contenu
Preface. Acknowledgements.

Part I: Hinduism And Modernity Explained:.

1. Modernity And Hinduism.

2. India And The Juggernaut Of Modernity.

3. Hinduism Ancient And Modern.

Part II: Hinduism For Others:.

4. Islam And Hinduism.

5. The Western Discovery Of Hinduism.

6. Hinduism and Orientalism.

Part III: Hinduism Contrasted With Modernity:.

7. 'Woman Caste' (Aurat Jati) And The Gender Of Modernity.

8. Kali East And West.

9. The Gods Of Hinduism And The Idols Of Modernity.

10. The Image Of The Self.

Part IV: Hinduism Today:.

11. Gurus.

12. Modernity And Hindu Nationalism.

13. Hinduism And The Global Future.

Notes.

References.

Index.