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The Argumentative Indian (Amartya Sen)

CBSE · Class 12 · English

Complete topic list for The Argumentative Indian (Amartya Sen) in CBSE Class 12 English. Key concepts, sub-topics, and what to focus on for board exams.

64 questions30 flashcards5 concepts

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4 Topics · CBSE Class 12 English

Topics in The Argumentative Indian (Amartya Sen)

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.

Key Concepts

Central concept: Argumentative tradition as a foundation of Indian thought, democracy, and public reasoning

Krishna and Arjuna debateJ. R. Oppenheimer parallelMaitreyi's rhetorical questionIndian argumentative traditionDemocracy as public reasoningMisconceptions about Indian democracyCrossing social barriersLanguage and textual analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in The Argumentative Indian (Amartya Sen) for CBSE Class 12 English?
The Argumentative Indian (Amartya Sen) covers several key topics that are frequently asked in CBSE Class 12 board exams. Focus on the core concepts listed on this page and practise related questions to build confidence.
How to score full marks in The Argumentative Indian (Amartya Sen) — CBSE Class 12 English?
Understand the core concepts first, then work through the 64 practice questions available for this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly, and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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