Eqbal Ahmad: Culture of Imperialism

In the following few posts, I want to share a few of my all time favorite articles. I start with a thoughtful piece by the late Eqbal Ahmad, entitled “Culture of Imperialism.” Culture of ImperialismBy Eqbal Ahmad The expansions which followed Christopher Columbus’ s voyage to the Americas resulted in the destruction of great civilizations [...]

Read Full Post »

Plight of Women in Pakistan

Scholars have suggested a variety of perspectives to explain women’s plight in Pakistan. Here is an insightful perspective that considers power, status, and money to be at the roots. The Social FarceBy Ayesha Siddiqa, Dawn, September 05, 2008 Source ALTHOUGH Pakistan’s attention seems completely diverted towards the upcoming presidential elections, there are other equally important [...]

Read Full Post »

In the Realm of Love – Allama Iqbal

I strongly believe that in these words lies the solution to various crises that Pakistan is experiencing today, ranging from corruption and injustice to the crisis of national identity and protecting our sovereignty. In the Realm of Love Allama Iqbal dayaar-e-ishq mein apna maqaam paida karnayaa zamaana naye subah shaam paida kar khuda agar dil-e-fitrat [...]

Read Full Post »

Watan kii fikar kar – Allama Iqbal

I copy here a poem in the context of numerous crises that Pakistan is facing at the moment. Allama Iqbal wrote the following poem prior to the establishment of Pakistan. But it seems much more relevant today. watan kii fikar kar watan kii fikar kar nadaan museebat aane wali haiteri barbadiyon ke mashware hain aasmanoon [...]

Read Full Post »

Consumption as a Lifestyle

While reading the article, Today’s Consumption in Egypt by Mona Abaza, I could not help but notice again and again the parallels between the changes that have already happened in Egypt more than a decade ago and the rapid social changes happening in Pakistan today. Thanks, in part, to the neo-liberal economic reforms and opening [...]

Read Full Post »