The Evolution of Pragmatism in India

"A magnificent study" (New York Review of Books) of how the Indian reformer Bhimrao Ambedkar reimagined John Deweys pragmatism. In The Evolution of Pragmatism in India, Scott R. Stroud delivers a comprehensive exploration of the influence of John Deweys pragmatism on Bhimrao Ambedkar, architect of the Republic of Indias constitution. Stroud traces Ambedkars development in Deweys Columbia University classes in 19131916 through his final years in 1950s India when he rewrote the story of Buddhism. Stroud examines pragmatisms influence not only on the philosophical ideas underpinning Ambedkars fight against caste oppression but also how his persuasive techniques drew on pragmatisms commitment to reconstruction and meliorism. At the same time, Stroud is careful to point out the ways that Ambedkar pushed back against Deweys paradigm and developed his own approach to challenges in India. The result is a nuanced study of one of the most important figures in Indian history.