Philosophy in Colonial India: The Science Question

Abstract

This essay purports to highlight the creative dimensions of modern Indian philosophy by focusing on the ways it configured colonial reality and came to terms with the question of modern science and technology. The three main perspectives on colonialism can be characterized as (a) a theory of Total Subjugation (b) a theory of Cultural Self ; and (c) a theory of Revitalization to which correspond, respectively, three points of view regarding modern science and technology, namely (a) unqualified acceptance, (b) qualified acceptance and (c) qualified rejection. The first and the second responses promoted, with different degrees of vehemence, the project of India as a nation state to be built under the leadership of a scientific and technological elite, whereas the third response made room for the project of India as a civilizational endeavour led by artisans and craftsmen.