This significant collection of original papers by eminent scholars traces the trajectories of state formation in India and Europe, two political entities facing major uncertainties and challenges today. In terms of the number of people affected, the geographical space involved, and the cultural and political diversity, India is more comparable to Europe than to any single country. The contributors highlight the similarities and differences in the patterns of state formation in India and in Europe, offering in the process new insights on a variety of aspects. Beginning with a discussion in the first part of the genesis of early state forms in the Indian and European historico-cultural contexts, the essays in the next two sections examine processes of identity formation and new issues pertaining to the role of the state and citizenship. This is followed by an examination of questions thrown up by trends of marginalisation and the emergence of social movements in the current context. The concluding part contains perspectives on patterns of state formation and social transformation in India and Europe. This well researched and lucidly written volume will be of immense interest to students and scholars in the areas of comparative politics, theories of the state, history, sociology, social philosophy, and development studies.
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