Cultural values and globalization: India’s dilemma

Abstract

The argument in this article is twofold. First, the Euro-American project of creating a world market is underpinned by its hegemonic agenda. Second, this has serious implications for the preservation of India’s composite cultural tradition and religious identities. Related to this is the commoditization of women and gender relations. The crucial relevance of grafting the ideals of western modernity for the success of the project of globalization is demonstrated. However, the argument regarding the inevitability of globalization and by implication of western modernity must be contested. The paradigm of modernity for India neither ignores the material aspects of human existence, nor advocates rejection of its rich cultural heritage or withdrawal from community-based social life.