Read nearly 50 years after its original publication, this extended essay on Raffles reads as fresh and relevant. Presented here for a new audience, it sets out the key elements of the debate in understanding Raffles' own political philosophy through the record of his actions, not just in Singapore, but in Southeast Asia.
By introducing non-Western and female perspectives, this book critiques the traditional sociological canon, highlighting biases of Eurocentrism and androcentrism. It examines both well-known 'founding fathers' and overlooked thinkers, challenging the notion that only Western European and North American males contributed to sociological theory in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. With a global scope, it aims to restructure the understanding of classical sociology and serves as a valuable teaching resource for students exploring its development.
Focusing on 'visuality' and 'materiality,' this work explores the daily religious practices of Hindus in diasporic settings, highlighting their efforts to maintain theistic, devotional Hinduism. Through primary ethnographic research, it delves into themes of material religion, the intersection of religion and consumption, and the visual aspects of Hindu culture, providing a nuanced understanding of how these elements shape the spiritual lives of the community.
From the Straits Settlements to Singapore
Focusing on the dynamics of religion-state relations in Singapore, this work explores the interactions between religious and state institutions within a diverse, secular environment. It delves into the mechanisms that maintain these connections, highlighting the complexities and nuances of governance in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.