Nietzsche & Iqbal: Ubermensch and Khudi

January 17, 2023 Mohammed Abbasi

“In individuals, insanity is rare; but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule” – Friedrich Nietzsche This means that individuals may act differently when part of a group. This is not unique to Nietzsche’s philosophy. Islam emphasizes the importance of individuals taking responsibility for their own actions and the dangers of following a group or leader without using reason and critical thinking. Islam encourages individuals to think and reflect on the teachings of the Quran, and to make decisions based on their own understanding of the teachings, rather than blindly following the beliefs or actions of a … Continue reading Nietzsche & Iqbal: Ubermensch and Khudi

Five myths about the partition of British India – and what really happened

August 21, 2022August 21, 2022 Mohammed Abbasi

Navtej K Purewal, SOAS, University of London and Eleanor Newbigin, SOAS, University of London This August marks 75 years since the partition of the Indian subcontinent. British withdrawal from the region prompted the creation of two new states, India and Pakistan. The process of transferring power grossly simplified diverse societies to make it seem like dividing social groups and drawing new borders was logical and even possible. This decision unleashed one of the biggest human migrations of the 20th century when more than ten million people fled across borders seeking safe refuge. Anniversaries can be a critical moment to pause … Continue reading Five myths about the partition of British India – and what really happened