Learning Politics From Sivaram: The Life and Death of a Revolutionary Tamil Journalist in Sri Lanka

by Mark P. Whitaker

"Very interesting and original. The concerns he raises have been central to American anthropology for twenty years." Thomas Eriksen, Professor of Social Anthropology, University of Oslo "This book has been long-awaited by many scholars, and others concerned about the conflict in Sri Lanka. It could become a new exemplar of how anthropology should be done." Margaret Trawick, Professor of Social Anthropology, Massey University, New Zealand This is the story of the life and impact of the political activist, journalist and freedom-fighter Sivaram Dharmeratnam. Sivaram dedicated his life to helping the Tamil people in Sri Lanka. He started out as an active participant in the war against the Sri Lankan government -- in the eyes of some, a "terrorist". Yet he eventually stepped away from the ruthless violence it involved. Instead, he became a high profile journalist in the Sri Lankan press, and used his position to fearlessly critique the government -- despite repeated threats on his life, and the murder of other journalists. Finally, in 2005, Sivaram himself was assassinated. Written over a period of twenty-five years, this vivid life history also engages with much broader issues. It offers an intimate portrait of why an educated man adopts a position of supporting violence. While his position softens, Sivaram remains critical of the liberal political principles that govern Western policy. The book also addresses the problems of writing a life history, and explores the ways in which anthropologists can become entwined with their subjects -- showing how anthropology itself becomes a living and transformative process.

Genres: History, Anthropology

272 pages, Paperback

First published December 20, 2006

Reviews

[abilog · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book inspired me in many ways: but most importantly: it reminded me to aim for a life with integrity

[Pragash · Rating 5 out of 5]

A clear exploration of the brilliant political analysis of Sivaram, intertwined with philosophy and the historical context of the 'Srilankan' civil war. A definite must read for those who are interested in counter-insurgency tactics, nationalism, conflict, resistance, social analysis, and much more.

[PeaceAll · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thought-provoking book indeed! Sad to say that Journalist Sivaram continued to to write the Truth but was assassinated by the Government of Sri Lanka, in 2005 AFTER repeated threats on his life, and the murder of other journalists.

I recently saw this Documentary on this Journalist and learned a lot! Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okLuc...

[வெ ராமசாமி · Rating 4 out of 5]

ஸ்ரீலங்கா, ஈழம் பற்றிய புரிதல்களுக்கு மிகவும் உதவக்கூடிய புத்தகங்களில் இந்தப் புத்தகமும் ஒன்று.