Making Sense of History: Society, Culture and Politics

Making Sense of History is a historian's exploration of the past and present. Some articles, essays and interviews supplement his scholarly publications, but most reflect Professor Hasan's present-day concerns. Thus, he writes on 11 September, on Palestine and on pogrom in Gujarat. He dwells on the rise of Hindu nationalism and Islamic fundamentalism and critically evaluates their cultural and ideological resources. His is a story that resonates with ideas on the contemporary Indian scene. This book also devotes a section to some of the leading Western and South Asian interpreters of Islam. Without being apologetic about Islamic teachings, Professor Hasan engages with a wide range of topics of concern to contemporary Muslims in India and overseas. Covering a variety of themes including jehad, education, literature and political thought, he clears up some distortions and mispresentations about Islam and the Muslim communities. Professor Hasan airs his views with unusual candour. He is clear in his thinking, lucid in his exposition, and uninhibited in communicating with his newspaper readers. The book affords many valuable insights and interesting analyses. Readers seeking an understanding of aspects of Indian history and contemporary affairs will find a sensitive handling of the various social, cultural and political issues.