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Revision Notes

The Argumentative Indian (Amartya Sen)

CBSE · Class 12 · English

Quick revision notes for The Argumentative Indian (Amartya Sen) — CBSE Class 12 English. Key concepts, formulas, and definitions for last-minute revision.

64 questions30 flashcards5 concepts

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Key Topics to Revise

1

Core Idea of the Essay

  • India has a long tradition of argument and public discussion.
  • This argumentative spirit shapes culture, politics, and social life.
  • Sen treats argumentation as a positive force, not a negative one.
2

Krishna, Arjuna, and the Question of Duty

  • Arjuna raises serious moral doubts about war.
  • His question focuses on consequences, not only duty.
  • Krishna represents the view of doing one's duty despite consequences.
3

Oppenheimer Parallel

  • J. R. Oppenheimer developed the first nuclear explosion device in 1945.
  • Sen compares Oppenheimer’s dilemma with the Krishna-Arjuna debate.
  • Oppenheimer later said: "When you see something that is technically sweet, you go ahead and do it and you argue about what to do about it only after you have had your technical success."
4

Maitreyi and the Human Predicament

  • Maitreyi asks: "what should I do with that by which I do not become immortal".
  • The question reflects the limits of the material world.
  • It also expresses a deep human search for lasting meaning.

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Full Notes

Key Concepts

India is presented as a societyKrishna advises doing one’s duty asArjuna raises moral questions aboutPublic reasoning means discussionDemocracy is linked to active public

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