The book is written by Nobel Prize winner Amartya Sen. It is a scholarly reflection of Indian culture, heterogeneous traditions,
glorious history and delicately woven secular texture which keeps on getting jolts from separatist and integrationist forces. India’s long
argumentative tradition has enabled her to be one of the largest democracies in the world. Some of the fundamental issues have also been raised to keep it functional and vibrant in contemporary politics.
The first and second essay in part 1 deal with India’s long argumentative tradition, it is a feast of divergent views, cultures, traditions, and freedom of expression. It has encouraged Aryabhatta, Vrahmir, Brahamagupta Bhaskara and Kautilya to carry on development in the field of science, mathematics, astronomy,
philosophy and economics. The women had a strong position in society, they were very well read, articulate, intelligent, not always very soft and peace loving, and were respected for these very qualities. Their personal life was well guarded; even a much married Draupadi or Kunti, commanded great respect.
Two great Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata are on the same footing as Iliad and Odyssey. They are full of dialogues, dilemmas, divergent views of people from all walks of life. Bhagwad Gita is a fine example of substantive arguments where Krishna emphasizes on duty rather than its consequences. Indian philosophy owes a great deal to these epics, Vedas, and religious sects like Jains, Buddhists, Arabs, Chinese, Turks. And, also to the pioneers of Bhakti movement.
India is a land of diverse cultures, religions, languages and geographical features. Rulers like Asoka, Akbar, Chandragupta Maurya, Alauddin Khilji and Chandragupta-11 encouraged argumentative tradition. It is an essential tool for the underdogs and the successful functioning of democracy. Even modern politics India, and other countries try to resolve their disputes through dialogues and arguments.