Anthropology, Politics & the State

Focusing on the intersection of culture and politics, this book analyzes democracy, nationalism, state dynamics, and political violence through anthropological lenses. It begins with a chaotic election campaign in 1980s Sri Lanka and explores topics such as rural policing in northern India and urban housing issues in Delhi. The narrative weaves in discussions on secularism, pluralism, and the impact of electoral democracy, culminating in the efforts of feminist peace activists in Sri Lanka to foster shared humanity post-conflict. This study emphasizes anthropology's relevance in understanding contemporary political divisions.