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The Ultimate Goal: A Former R&AW Chief Deconstructs How Nations Construct Narratives
In The Ultimate Goal , Vikram Sood, former chief of India's external intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), explains 'the narrative' and how a country's ability to construct, sustain and control narratives, at home and abroad, enhances its strength and position. Intelligence agencies invariably play a critical role in this, an often-indispensable tool of statecraft.
A 'narrative' may not necessarily be based on truth, but it does need to be plausible, have a meaning and create a desired perception. During most of the twentieth century, intelligence agencies helped shape narratives favourable to their countries' agendas through literature, history, drama, art, music and cinema. Today, social media has become crucial to manipulating, countering or disrupting narratives, with its ability to spread fake news disinformation, and provoke reactions.
A 'narrative' may not necessarily be based on truth, but it does need to be plausible, have a meaning and create a desired perception. During most of the twentieth century, intelligence agencies helped shape narratives favourable to their countries' agendas through literature, history, drama, art, music and cinema. Today, social media has become crucial to manipulating, countering or disrupting narratives, with its ability to spread fake news disinformation, and provoke reactions.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published January 18, 2022
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April 30, 2021
Brilliant would be an understatement to this superb book written by the former Chief of the Research & Analysis Wing (R&AW) Vikram Sood. To put it simply and as the title suggests, the book is all about narratives. However, the way the author goes about explaining this simple yet powerful fact through anecdotes makes it a superb read.
There is a flow to the entire book. It begins with the United States of America, British Empire and today's United Kingdom, the erstwhile Soviet Union and today's Russia, Communist China and its ambitions under the overly ambitious Xi Jinping. How these countries have made use of narratives to further their interests and project themselves as great powers makes a fascinating read. A tip would be to pay special attention to the way the US and Hollywood have combined to come up with narratives. So many details are hard to believe but are true nevertheless.
Finally, the book ends with India. The author is right on the money in describing the many aspects of where India has gone wrong with respect to the narrative building. Firstly, we learn very little about our own ancient history, our glorious past which hardly makes it to our textbooks. Secondly, the skewed notion of secularism is brilliantly brought to the table by the author. Secularism in India has become a euphemism for blatant minority appeasement and that is the narrative that runs deep across India, quite, unfortunately.
Hindu nationalism is projected negatively and seen as some sort of taboo by the Indian liberals and the elite although, Christian nationalism and Islamic nationalism have been embraced by other countries. One of the most relevant points that are often ignored but are true word by word is brilliantly quoted by the author.
Hindus do not need a constitutional amendment to ensure secularism; India is secular because the majority is secular. Perhaps it is time that Hindus have a country to their name where others can live with equal rights under a Uniform Civil Code. Secularism is equality; it is not the appeasement of a minority group by the majority. Therefore, in a truly secular society, there can be no quotas, subsidies or special rights on the basis of religion. .
To be a great power, nations need to be in control of their own narratives. That is something the US, the UK, China, the Soviet Union, and Russia have done to varying degrees of measure. If India aspires to be a great power, it is imperative that we write our own histories and tell our own stories to the world so that we are in control of the narrative.
There is a flow to the entire book. It begins with the United States of America, British Empire and today's United Kingdom, the erstwhile Soviet Union and today's Russia, Communist China and its ambitions under the overly ambitious Xi Jinping. How these countries have made use of narratives to further their interests and project themselves as great powers makes a fascinating read. A tip would be to pay special attention to the way the US and Hollywood have combined to come up with narratives. So many details are hard to believe but are true nevertheless.
Finally, the book ends with India. The author is right on the money in describing the many aspects of where India has gone wrong with respect to the narrative building. Firstly, we learn very little about our own ancient history, our glorious past which hardly makes it to our textbooks. Secondly, the skewed notion of secularism is brilliantly brought to the table by the author. Secularism in India has become a euphemism for blatant minority appeasement and that is the narrative that runs deep across India, quite, unfortunately.
Hindu nationalism is projected negatively and seen as some sort of taboo by the Indian liberals and the elite although, Christian nationalism and Islamic nationalism have been embraced by other countries. One of the most relevant points that are often ignored but are true word by word is brilliantly quoted by the author.
Hindus do not need a constitutional amendment to ensure secularism; India is secular because the majority is secular. Perhaps it is time that Hindus have a country to their name where others can live with equal rights under a Uniform Civil Code. Secularism is equality; it is not the appeasement of a minority group by the majority. Therefore, in a truly secular society, there can be no quotas, subsidies or special rights on the basis of religion. .
To be a great power, nations need to be in control of their own narratives. That is something the US, the UK, China, the Soviet Union, and Russia have done to varying degrees of measure. If India aspires to be a great power, it is imperative that we write our own histories and tell our own stories to the world so that we are in control of the narrative.
April 8, 2021
Book: The Ultimate Goal: A Former R&AW Chief Deconstructs How Nations Construct Narratives
Author: Vikram Sood
Publisher: Harper India; 1st edition (5 October 2020)
Language: English
Hardcover: 304 pages
Item Weight: 499 g
Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 4 cm
Country of Origin: India
Price: 425/-
‘Narrative’ is writing that goes on to bond thoughts, perceptions or happenings. Narration has three important aspects attached to it:
a) It connects events, showing their blueprints, relating them to each other or to precise ideas, topics or conceptions.
b) It is an art in that when we tell a story, we shape the narrative – the connection between events.
c) Narrating an account involves shaping events around an overarching set of aims or effects (whether deliberately or instinctively).
Facts are not always what they come into sight, but are often what they are perceived to be. Thus, the truth is not superlative in affairs of state, and is often hidden within a package of half-truths and insinuation. Instead, insights built on narratives become the accepted truth.
In the fullness of time, we become the quintessence of our discernments, chauvinisms, abhorrences and aversions, in addition to our own nationalism that frequently border on egotistic convictions.
Unlike scientific facts or mathematical equations, which are revered until proven otherwise, political facts, historical facts and ideas are acquiescent and can be changed as per geopolitical expediency.
Scientific proof is hardly ever required, but archaeological facts for history are an exception. This conviction is determined by the narratives created.
Narratives are also about the need to acclimatize. The definitive remote-control weapon is one that strikes at hostile targets in faraway places, operated from a safe location outside the zone of conflict, in unilateral warfare where people die only on one side.
The killer sees his victim as a silent puff of smoke on the screen and since he does not hear their cries, modern technology enables this to be described as a ‘humane’ weapon.
This book is a realistic description, and is not a critique of global systems and narratives. It is an account of the storylines that are created by states to rule or dictate others and exercise control.
Narratives develop over time; they cannot be made obtainable at the flick of a button. Narratives have to be nurtured over years, sustained and fed all the time from manifold sources and agencies. Narratives are about the superiority of one’s own country, civilization, culture and, in every possible aspect, by implication, innuendo or, if required, quite brazenly, about the inferiority of the other.
In the past, in the days of empires, conquest or victory in war robotically bestowed advantage to the victor and, as an effect, lowliness on the conquered.
In the present age, dominance is sustained and exhibited through other means. Narratives are also constructed to rationalize a course of action, to give it a raison d'être – be it a threat to peace, violation of treaties or humanitarian considerations. The real reasons could easily lie elsewhere.
The author holds that post Independence, the Western narrative about India changed. It took on a different political flavour against socialist (pro-Soviet) Nehruvian India and, instead, became supportive of pliable and useful politicians and generals in Pakistan.
Discourses about India, stereotyped the country as a deprived and fraudulent land bereft of optimism, unable to endure without Western generosity. The vagabond on the street, the bullock cart, the scarcity, the huge crowds, the snake charmer and the Taj Mahal were the stock shots in the media, accompanied by apposite, more often than not censorious annotations.
In the years following Independence, the Hindu Indian academic did not facilitate India’s case either. Civilizational roots were disposed of and accession for transgressions not committed was the chosen course to international acknowledgment.
It was only after the genocide of Kashmiri Pandits and their exodus in 1990, the denial of the Muslim leadership to renounce the Babri Masjid for something close to Hindu faith, followed by the double jeopardy of a repeatedly inert and spiritless government that conceded to the institution of a Minorities Commission and Minorities Ministry to mollify Muslims, that there was a trendy surge of Hindu sentiment.
The Hindu had begun to feel susceptible in the country where he was in preponderance. He began to emphasize his democratic right of ‘one person, one vote’ and each person with equal rights.
This, if truth be told, has revolutionized the way young Indians perceive the West – as a place of prospect but with self-esteem.
Western media insights are more about jealousy, along with the earlier derision or are, at best, patronizing. Today, the entitled in India feel ejected and disadvantaged after aeons of privilege.
Their dialogues are gradually more confined to their echo chambers; they are toothless to observe that there is an India that is fast changing. The person who is going to matter is the kind who went to an IIT via the Super 30 school in Patna, or the Soshit Seva Sangha in the same city, which offers excellent modern school education to the Musahars, the lowest of the low in India’s still-prevalent caste ladder.
Religion and secularism in the Indian context have remained a damaged narrative. The state must be halfway from all religions to be secular – it does not have to endow dispensations anchored in religion or allow any religion to follow its own stipulations for the affairs of the state.
It is the individual who must be tolerant. A devout person of any religion can be a truly tolerant person. It is the bigot who is dangerous, and the most threatening is the self-proclaimed liberal who tolerates no opinion other than his own.
Sood has divided his book into the following dozen chapters:
1. Getting the Story Right
2. God’s Own Country
3. The Hollywood Narrative Factory
4. Intelligence, Media and the Narrative
5. Profits of War in the Name of Peace
6. Reluctant Imperialist or Empire by Design?
7. Empires, Immigration, Nationalism and Islam
8. The Perils of Political Correctness
9. The Russian Way
10. Through China’s Looking Glass
11. Corporate Dreams
12. The India Story
Beginning with some subjective accounts, the first chapter speaks about defining narratives in the geopolitical context.
The subsequent chapter is about high-ranking institutes of authority in the US, where the wealthy and the influential from both sides of the Atlantic mostly assemble to decide the future of the world.
The Christian church also has a character to play in this. And none of the narratives – of transmitting impressions and influencing the common citizen – can work without the help of the celluloid world, along with the intelligence community. This is featured in Chapter Three.
Tinsel town and its many arms, in the media, internet and television, is where many of the delusions are imagined for those who can be influenced. The function of the media, with silent assistance from intelligence agencies, where the two await, build or thwart influences and prejudices, is detailed in Chapter Four.
The fifth chapter contends with the account of the tremendously dominant and gainful military–industry complex and its gradually more widening realm.
The sixth chapter is rooted in America’s position as the unwilling imperialist.
The seventh chapter talks about imperialism, nationalism and Islam.
Chapter Eight is about plots built around political exactness and their dangers.
Chapter Nine and Ten are fundamentally on how the Russians and then the Chinese have tried to generate their narratives, typically with the help of their prevailing intelligence agencies.
The corporate world has its reveries to construct and sell, and this is detailed in the Eleventh chapter.
The concluding chapter is about India – about how the storyline of the country was created by the West, from the time it ruled the world. It also speaks of the manner in which India now tries to answer the question: ‘who are we, and what is an India for all, without favours?’
In the writing of this book, the author has relied lengthily on Western sources, as global narratives in the past 150 years have emerged frequently from there. The Russians and the Chinese have not been capable to spread their stories, hampered as they are by their systems of governance and their languages. Colonies, certainly, had no voice during the age of imperialism and no abilities either as independent nations.
References to India are from sources within the nation, since that is where the unadulterated Indian narrative lies; particularly the young, who comprise the bulk and to whom the future belongs. It is significant to recognize them and portray their opinions if India is to build its own narrative.
This is a book meant for the next generation. It is to them that Vikram Sood efforts to clarify, how the real world works, without being either pharisaic or pejorative.
The author has sought to be as unflustered and dispassionate as possible. The language of the book is brittle and the style of narration both exotic as well as compelling.
Grab a copy if you choose.
Author: Vikram Sood
Publisher: Harper India; 1st edition (5 October 2020)
Language: English
Hardcover: 304 pages
Item Weight: 499 g
Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 4 cm
Country of Origin: India
Price: 425/-
‘Narrative’ is writing that goes on to bond thoughts, perceptions or happenings. Narration has three important aspects attached to it:
a) It connects events, showing their blueprints, relating them to each other or to precise ideas, topics or conceptions.
b) It is an art in that when we tell a story, we shape the narrative – the connection between events.
c) Narrating an account involves shaping events around an overarching set of aims or effects (whether deliberately or instinctively).
Facts are not always what they come into sight, but are often what they are perceived to be. Thus, the truth is not superlative in affairs of state, and is often hidden within a package of half-truths and insinuation. Instead, insights built on narratives become the accepted truth.
In the fullness of time, we become the quintessence of our discernments, chauvinisms, abhorrences and aversions, in addition to our own nationalism that frequently border on egotistic convictions.
Unlike scientific facts or mathematical equations, which are revered until proven otherwise, political facts, historical facts and ideas are acquiescent and can be changed as per geopolitical expediency.
Scientific proof is hardly ever required, but archaeological facts for history are an exception. This conviction is determined by the narratives created.
Narratives are also about the need to acclimatize. The definitive remote-control weapon is one that strikes at hostile targets in faraway places, operated from a safe location outside the zone of conflict, in unilateral warfare where people die only on one side.
The killer sees his victim as a silent puff of smoke on the screen and since he does not hear their cries, modern technology enables this to be described as a ‘humane’ weapon.
This book is a realistic description, and is not a critique of global systems and narratives. It is an account of the storylines that are created by states to rule or dictate others and exercise control.
Narratives develop over time; they cannot be made obtainable at the flick of a button. Narratives have to be nurtured over years, sustained and fed all the time from manifold sources and agencies. Narratives are about the superiority of one’s own country, civilization, culture and, in every possible aspect, by implication, innuendo or, if required, quite brazenly, about the inferiority of the other.
In the past, in the days of empires, conquest or victory in war robotically bestowed advantage to the victor and, as an effect, lowliness on the conquered.
In the present age, dominance is sustained and exhibited through other means. Narratives are also constructed to rationalize a course of action, to give it a raison d'être – be it a threat to peace, violation of treaties or humanitarian considerations. The real reasons could easily lie elsewhere.
The author holds that post Independence, the Western narrative about India changed. It took on a different political flavour against socialist (pro-Soviet) Nehruvian India and, instead, became supportive of pliable and useful politicians and generals in Pakistan.
Discourses about India, stereotyped the country as a deprived and fraudulent land bereft of optimism, unable to endure without Western generosity. The vagabond on the street, the bullock cart, the scarcity, the huge crowds, the snake charmer and the Taj Mahal were the stock shots in the media, accompanied by apposite, more often than not censorious annotations.
In the years following Independence, the Hindu Indian academic did not facilitate India’s case either. Civilizational roots were disposed of and accession for transgressions not committed was the chosen course to international acknowledgment.
It was only after the genocide of Kashmiri Pandits and their exodus in 1990, the denial of the Muslim leadership to renounce the Babri Masjid for something close to Hindu faith, followed by the double jeopardy of a repeatedly inert and spiritless government that conceded to the institution of a Minorities Commission and Minorities Ministry to mollify Muslims, that there was a trendy surge of Hindu sentiment.
The Hindu had begun to feel susceptible in the country where he was in preponderance. He began to emphasize his democratic right of ‘one person, one vote’ and each person with equal rights.
This, if truth be told, has revolutionized the way young Indians perceive the West – as a place of prospect but with self-esteem.
Western media insights are more about jealousy, along with the earlier derision or are, at best, patronizing. Today, the entitled in India feel ejected and disadvantaged after aeons of privilege.
Their dialogues are gradually more confined to their echo chambers; they are toothless to observe that there is an India that is fast changing. The person who is going to matter is the kind who went to an IIT via the Super 30 school in Patna, or the Soshit Seva Sangha in the same city, which offers excellent modern school education to the Musahars, the lowest of the low in India’s still-prevalent caste ladder.
Religion and secularism in the Indian context have remained a damaged narrative. The state must be halfway from all religions to be secular – it does not have to endow dispensations anchored in religion or allow any religion to follow its own stipulations for the affairs of the state.
It is the individual who must be tolerant. A devout person of any religion can be a truly tolerant person. It is the bigot who is dangerous, and the most threatening is the self-proclaimed liberal who tolerates no opinion other than his own.
Sood has divided his book into the following dozen chapters:
1. Getting the Story Right
2. God’s Own Country
3. The Hollywood Narrative Factory
4. Intelligence, Media and the Narrative
5. Profits of War in the Name of Peace
6. Reluctant Imperialist or Empire by Design?
7. Empires, Immigration, Nationalism and Islam
8. The Perils of Political Correctness
9. The Russian Way
10. Through China’s Looking Glass
11. Corporate Dreams
12. The India Story
Beginning with some subjective accounts, the first chapter speaks about defining narratives in the geopolitical context.
The subsequent chapter is about high-ranking institutes of authority in the US, where the wealthy and the influential from both sides of the Atlantic mostly assemble to decide the future of the world.
The Christian church also has a character to play in this. And none of the narratives – of transmitting impressions and influencing the common citizen – can work without the help of the celluloid world, along with the intelligence community. This is featured in Chapter Three.
Tinsel town and its many arms, in the media, internet and television, is where many of the delusions are imagined for those who can be influenced. The function of the media, with silent assistance from intelligence agencies, where the two await, build or thwart influences and prejudices, is detailed in Chapter Four.
The fifth chapter contends with the account of the tremendously dominant and gainful military–industry complex and its gradually more widening realm.
The sixth chapter is rooted in America’s position as the unwilling imperialist.
The seventh chapter talks about imperialism, nationalism and Islam.
Chapter Eight is about plots built around political exactness and their dangers.
Chapter Nine and Ten are fundamentally on how the Russians and then the Chinese have tried to generate their narratives, typically with the help of their prevailing intelligence agencies.
The corporate world has its reveries to construct and sell, and this is detailed in the Eleventh chapter.
The concluding chapter is about India – about how the storyline of the country was created by the West, from the time it ruled the world. It also speaks of the manner in which India now tries to answer the question: ‘who are we, and what is an India for all, without favours?’
In the writing of this book, the author has relied lengthily on Western sources, as global narratives in the past 150 years have emerged frequently from there. The Russians and the Chinese have not been capable to spread their stories, hampered as they are by their systems of governance and their languages. Colonies, certainly, had no voice during the age of imperialism and no abilities either as independent nations.
References to India are from sources within the nation, since that is where the unadulterated Indian narrative lies; particularly the young, who comprise the bulk and to whom the future belongs. It is significant to recognize them and portray their opinions if India is to build its own narrative.
This is a book meant for the next generation. It is to them that Vikram Sood efforts to clarify, how the real world works, without being either pharisaic or pejorative.
The author has sought to be as unflustered and dispassionate as possible. The language of the book is brittle and the style of narration both exotic as well as compelling.
Grab a copy if you choose.
January 8, 2023
it's really a well-written professional book to understand how countries construct narratives to further their political and economical interests. You will get a clear picture of How America stayed as a superpower with its narratives and making people believe narratives as facts even though they are partial truths. The author himself worked for Raw, He has spent his experience and intelligence in this book to unfurl the web of lies and deceit behind the narrative sold by nations like the U.S., China, Russia, and Britain to subjugate other nations.
and he also explored, How Hollywood, corporate, media, and social justice movements from the west work closely with their respective government to push their agenda to keep their nation at the top and justify inhumane actions on poor countries.
After reading this book, I have started to realize we are just laboratory guinea pigs trained to further the agenda and narrative as truth to subjugate the guinea pigs from the poorly funded laboratory of other nations. It's hard to digest the fact that we all are brian washed by elites to justify or accept the horror committed on fellow human beings. "Vikram Sood" has done a great job in bringing up the heinous crimes committed by western democracies in the name of human rights and social justice throughout the decade.
Though America has done unjustifiable crimes with its web of lies in the name of upholding justice, human right, and democracy. I can't stop admiring their intelligence reach across the corners of the planet, I wish India also build its narrative and expand its network just like the U.S.A.
Must be read by everyone who loves to understand how foreign relation and narrative works between countries.
and he also explored, How Hollywood, corporate, media, and social justice movements from the west work closely with their respective government to push their agenda to keep their nation at the top and justify inhumane actions on poor countries.
After reading this book, I have started to realize we are just laboratory guinea pigs trained to further the agenda and narrative as truth to subjugate the guinea pigs from the poorly funded laboratory of other nations. It's hard to digest the fact that we all are brian washed by elites to justify or accept the horror committed on fellow human beings. "Vikram Sood" has done a great job in bringing up the heinous crimes committed by western democracies in the name of human rights and social justice throughout the decade.
Though America has done unjustifiable crimes with its web of lies in the name of upholding justice, human right, and democracy. I can't stop admiring their intelligence reach across the corners of the planet, I wish India also build its narrative and expand its network just like the U.S.A.
Must be read by everyone who loves to understand how foreign relation and narrative works between countries.
May 14, 2021
The Ultimate Goal by Vikram Sood has twelve chapters.
Chapters 1-6 & 11 provide a fantastic collection of second-hand information about the military-industrialist-politician-media domination over perception-building around the world. In these chapters, he establishes well how the US & British Intelligence have benefitted the stakes of a group of people through creating and spreading 'narratives'.
Chapters 8-10 & partially the chapter 7 provide another second-hand collection of information and perceptions which are sourced from those lapsing intelligence agencies, conservative/republican agendas, and from the defectors from the Chinese and Soviet regimes; all presented here as honest or true criticisms of these regimes and the anti-racist perception. This is not balancing, this is hypocrisy. Why shall I buy the 'narratives' spread by the mischievous West against their arch-enemies?
Chapter 12 on India is ridiculous. Sood establishes himself in this chapter as a pro-Modi, anti-'liberal', Hindutva-loving person in attempt to find India in the realpolitik of international relations as strong. He, in this chapter, either presents endless blatant lies or he is extremely misinformed about his own country.
This book presents selective second hand information, selective second hand opinions, and his own opinions - but not too subtly mingled up; one can easily filter the texts to suit one's needs.
Perhaps, this book has two types of discourses. One, what Sood wanted to tell (what lefts & liberals are telling for long); and, two, what he needed to tell (to save/promote his position in the bureaucracy, albeit retired). When he combined both in the same book, it became quite fallacious.
Had he had written this book under another Indian regime, he would have taken his stance as an anti-Modi, pro-'liberal', 'secular' person.
So, the book may be subject to massive edits a few years later.
I read this book to find some new input from Sood's own field-experience. But, it is not there in this book.
Chapters 1-6 & 11 provide a fantastic collection of second-hand information about the military-industrialist-politician-media domination over perception-building around the world. In these chapters, he establishes well how the US & British Intelligence have benefitted the stakes of a group of people through creating and spreading 'narratives'.
Chapters 8-10 & partially the chapter 7 provide another second-hand collection of information and perceptions which are sourced from those lapsing intelligence agencies, conservative/republican agendas, and from the defectors from the Chinese and Soviet regimes; all presented here as honest or true criticisms of these regimes and the anti-racist perception. This is not balancing, this is hypocrisy. Why shall I buy the 'narratives' spread by the mischievous West against their arch-enemies?
Chapter 12 on India is ridiculous. Sood establishes himself in this chapter as a pro-Modi, anti-'liberal', Hindutva-loving person in attempt to find India in the realpolitik of international relations as strong. He, in this chapter, either presents endless blatant lies or he is extremely misinformed about his own country.
This book presents selective second hand information, selective second hand opinions, and his own opinions - but not too subtly mingled up; one can easily filter the texts to suit one's needs.
Perhaps, this book has two types of discourses. One, what Sood wanted to tell (what lefts & liberals are telling for long); and, two, what he needed to tell (to save/promote his position in the bureaucracy, albeit retired). When he combined both in the same book, it became quite fallacious.
Had he had written this book under another Indian regime, he would have taken his stance as an anti-Modi, pro-'liberal', 'secular' person.
So, the book may be subject to massive edits a few years later.
I read this book to find some new input from Sood's own field-experience. But, it is not there in this book.
December 28, 2020
In this book, author heavily focus on narratives set by USA through digital and print media. He explains how USA use different kind of media to set “wrong” narratives for its own advantage. Irony, here is, that author - not a single time - mentioned how the current Indian government is using the same digital and print media to sell their narrative.
How can you compare India with countries like UK and Germany? I just don’t understand.
First eleven chapters were all about how USA and other countries create narratives. These were decent chapters. One chapter was dedicated to Russia and another to China. But the last chapter disappointed me.
The last chapter covers “India’s story”. I was expecting the author would have written about the narratives created by Indian government as he had written about USA and other counties in previous chapters. But all I got was some history of India, and some praise and defence for Hindutva.
The author criticised USA, its government, it’s presidents, the wars they started, UK, it’s government, and when it came to India, he ended up explaining why India should be a hindu country.
Being a former head of R&AW, I expected more from the author.
How can you compare India with countries like UK and Germany? I just don’t understand.
First eleven chapters were all about how USA and other countries create narratives. These were decent chapters. One chapter was dedicated to Russia and another to China. But the last chapter disappointed me.
The last chapter covers “India’s story”. I was expecting the author would have written about the narratives created by Indian government as he had written about USA and other counties in previous chapters. But all I got was some history of India, and some praise and defence for Hindutva.
The author criticised USA, its government, it’s presidents, the wars they started, UK, it’s government, and when it came to India, he ended up explaining why India should be a hindu country.
Being a former head of R&AW, I expected more from the author.
March 11, 2023
Written by 𝗘𝘅-𝗥𝗔𝗪 Chief(Vikram Sood)
The writer highlighted the importance of Narratives and how they turn into perceptions.
He mostly discussed Americans' way of creating a Narrative which suits them for aggression on any country.
RUSSIAN disinformation operations details and controlling perceptions about National interests.
Then Chinese way of game in this realm.
Interesting Read.
The writer highlighted the importance of Narratives and how they turn into perceptions.
He mostly discussed Americans' way of creating a Narrative which suits them for aggression on any country.
RUSSIAN disinformation operations details and controlling perceptions about National interests.
Then Chinese way of game in this realm.
Interesting Read.
January 13, 2021
January Reading Challenge - Non-Fiction Truth Bomb.
Done.
“The Ultimate Goal: A Former R&AW Chief Deconstructs How Nations Construct Narratives.” By Vikram Sood.
I expected to be shocked and awed by this book, but not to this extent. This book is a must read for anyone who wants to understand the genesis of many national and international events that seem blatantly wrong. An enormous amount of research and scholarship has gone into the writing of this book, with meticulous listing of sources.
One thing is clear. The common man, knows nothing about who is running his life, his world. It is a question of perception. Nations, especially in the west, and now China too, build up images, identities and narratives to suit their interests across the world. It is the story of how governments lie, are often puppets in the hands of election fund donors who then want more than their pound of flesh.
It is the lofty narrative built up by the US and its allies - of bringing democracy to nations suffering under despots. It is the grand-sounding narrative of granting aid and infrastructure assistance to nations affected by war or pestilence. “Restoration of democracy” means obtaining whatever is beneficial to them. Ever wondered why there have been so many wars in the middle east after the engineered “Arab Spring”? Devouring oil is the sole purpose of these conflicts. After all the big talk of WMDs in Iraq, they never did find any. The weapons lobby pays fat sums to political groups to generate wealth for themselves, and their political chums.
Wars benefit corporates before, during and after a war. Laying out infrastructure before and after a war, and of course, the powerful weapons lobby during the war. In-between, contracts worth millions are given out like candy.
As we observe tech tzars depriving Trump of a voice, we must admire our democracy where every now and again politically motivated cries for anarchy are also tolerated. Flying Pakistani and Khalistani flags doesn’t stop these miscreants from availing any benefits from the state.
Surveillance technology is used neither to alleviate hunger, nor to improve agriculture, literacy or climate. It is only, and only used for profit.
And yet, the narrative stands up on pulpits and declares itself the voice of the free. India has not been able to build its own narrative, in part due to ignorance of its value,and in part due to some of our journalists who publish anti-India pieces in foreign publications. These are responsible for building up negative narratives about our country.Follow the trail, and you will find some major corporates, pulling the strings behind media outlets. And all nations, except the tardy India have bought majority holdings in media outfits where it matters.
Sood rightly says:
“There comes a moment in the life of a nation when it must look back at its recent history and revisit its roots, before collective memories become faint, externally moulded perceptions become permanent and a call to revisit the past invites accusations of blasphemy.”
5 Stars.
Done.
“The Ultimate Goal: A Former R&AW Chief Deconstructs How Nations Construct Narratives.” By Vikram Sood.
I expected to be shocked and awed by this book, but not to this extent. This book is a must read for anyone who wants to understand the genesis of many national and international events that seem blatantly wrong. An enormous amount of research and scholarship has gone into the writing of this book, with meticulous listing of sources.
One thing is clear. The common man, knows nothing about who is running his life, his world. It is a question of perception. Nations, especially in the west, and now China too, build up images, identities and narratives to suit their interests across the world. It is the story of how governments lie, are often puppets in the hands of election fund donors who then want more than their pound of flesh.
It is the lofty narrative built up by the US and its allies - of bringing democracy to nations suffering under despots. It is the grand-sounding narrative of granting aid and infrastructure assistance to nations affected by war or pestilence. “Restoration of democracy” means obtaining whatever is beneficial to them. Ever wondered why there have been so many wars in the middle east after the engineered “Arab Spring”? Devouring oil is the sole purpose of these conflicts. After all the big talk of WMDs in Iraq, they never did find any. The weapons lobby pays fat sums to political groups to generate wealth for themselves, and their political chums.
Wars benefit corporates before, during and after a war. Laying out infrastructure before and after a war, and of course, the powerful weapons lobby during the war. In-between, contracts worth millions are given out like candy.
As we observe tech tzars depriving Trump of a voice, we must admire our democracy where every now and again politically motivated cries for anarchy are also tolerated. Flying Pakistani and Khalistani flags doesn’t stop these miscreants from availing any benefits from the state.
Surveillance technology is used neither to alleviate hunger, nor to improve agriculture, literacy or climate. It is only, and only used for profit.
And yet, the narrative stands up on pulpits and declares itself the voice of the free. India has not been able to build its own narrative, in part due to ignorance of its value,and in part due to some of our journalists who publish anti-India pieces in foreign publications. These are responsible for building up negative narratives about our country.Follow the trail, and you will find some major corporates, pulling the strings behind media outlets. And all nations, except the tardy India have bought majority holdings in media outfits where it matters.
Sood rightly says:
“There comes a moment in the life of a nation when it must look back at its recent history and revisit its roots, before collective memories become faint, externally moulded perceptions become permanent and a call to revisit the past invites accusations of blasphemy.”
5 Stars.
August 4, 2024
It's a really well-written book by the former RAW chief about how countries create narratives to propagate their agenda on the world map.
It's a good book to understand how the world and especially super powers function..
It's a good book to understand how the world and especially super powers function..
March 15, 2024
This book rattled me. Reading this made me sad, angry and feel perpetually helpless. With nuggets of insights from contemporary history it describes how powerful and wealthy nations set narratives for the world. It painfully explains how profits drive those nations and how they risk the lives of millions who are deluded into believing the changes they are seeing in their society is for their benefit.
It fearlessly points out how greedy and hypocritical the policies of western powers are in contrast to what they claim to stand for. You will understand how they enable regime changes and facilitate unstable nations so that they can devour the rich resources. You will also discover how they are mainly responsible for the rise Islamic radicalism and terrorism that is infecting the world and degrading the European societies.
The chapter on India will pierce your heart. You will know how biased and ill-informed narratives are set on India to downgrade its credibility and showcase it as regressive. What pains the most is the fact that Indians themselves are engaged in this activity for short-term brownie points, ignoring the long-term implications for the nation's progress.
All Indians should read this book and understand how the power games are played by international powers and how we should coerce our governments, academicians and journalists to set an Indian narrative that benefits us and not disgraces us.
It fearlessly points out how greedy and hypocritical the policies of western powers are in contrast to what they claim to stand for. You will understand how they enable regime changes and facilitate unstable nations so that they can devour the rich resources. You will also discover how they are mainly responsible for the rise Islamic radicalism and terrorism that is infecting the world and degrading the European societies.
The chapter on India will pierce your heart. You will know how biased and ill-informed narratives are set on India to downgrade its credibility and showcase it as regressive. What pains the most is the fact that Indians themselves are engaged in this activity for short-term brownie points, ignoring the long-term implications for the nation's progress.
All Indians should read this book and understand how the power games are played by international powers and how we should coerce our governments, academicians and journalists to set an Indian narrative that benefits us and not disgraces us.
January 31, 2021
The author is an intelligence professional who was the chief of RAW, but the book has nothing to do with RAW; it is mostly description of how great powers generate and propagate their national narratives and why India can and should do the same. Fans of Noam Chomsky will be pleasantly surprised to find many familiar themes when discussing Western narrative building, though I assume most leftists will react to the Indian portion as at least mildly "sanghi". In any case the book is always interesting because it chock full of interesting anecdotes (for which the author provides appropriate footnotes about the sources used). Whether you agree with the somewhat Machiavellian (for lack of a better word) analysis, you will still get to read some fascinating anecdotes. it is also well written and professionally edited. Well worth a read.
March 10, 2021
Narratives can make or break spirits of individuals, communities and nations !!
The author delves deep into how narratives are created by various agencies acting in tandem to further the goal of power acquisition and maintaining dominance.
The author presents various agencies across the world and especially from USA and Europe that have created dominant narratives since 20th century. Control of some institutions like the Bilderberg, which we thought to have been conspiracy theories, are granted authenticity by the author's prestige and the detail in which he describes their workings.
One major India centric point that the author makes is that, ' nationalism is good if it is emanating from a liberal western nation, but its bad its from anywhere else.'
The author rightly propounds the view that India needs to identify the follies of the past, recognise the atrocities of the past and only then can it chart out an appropriate course for future.
India is a CIVILISATIONAL NATION STATE. Its course of action should reflect this.
The author delves deep into how narratives are created by various agencies acting in tandem to further the goal of power acquisition and maintaining dominance.
The author presents various agencies across the world and especially from USA and Europe that have created dominant narratives since 20th century. Control of some institutions like the Bilderberg, which we thought to have been conspiracy theories, are granted authenticity by the author's prestige and the detail in which he describes their workings.
One major India centric point that the author makes is that, ' nationalism is good if it is emanating from a liberal western nation, but its bad its from anywhere else.'
The author rightly propounds the view that India needs to identify the follies of the past, recognise the atrocities of the past and only then can it chart out an appropriate course for future.
India is a CIVILISATIONAL NATION STATE. Its course of action should reflect this.
April 16, 2021
It is a brilliant read on how countries set narratives that suits them and want the world to believe. Mr Sood has done extensive research and writes with full command. The information shared is much comprehensible and becomes easier when one starts to connect the dots with real-life events. It is gripping, written in an easy language. Anyone who has an interest in geopolitics and wants to understand how nations tell their stories must read this book.
January 9, 2021
An objective, well-researched book. It does not engage in rants but does not hold back. The last few pages are pure gold.
October 15, 2023
Vikram Sood retired as the Chief of the Research and Analysis Wing, the premier intelligence agency of India. Sood has had a ring-side view of the murky world of espionage. It is no wonder that he can dig into his vast experience and come up with a convincing narrative on how Nations build narratives to further their aspirations on the world stage.
It is quite apparent that the author does not hold the West and in particular the US in high esteem. Right from the word go, Sood deconstructs the secrets behind the massive operation that is mounted by the Americans to get their version of the story out in the world. Sood leaves no stone unturned to bring to light the duplicitous machinations that the Americans have been up to all across the world with the sole purpose of protecting their interests. It is another matter that they have managed to create more problems in the world because of the dangerous double games they have been playing. The Americans manage to paint an alluring picture of their country through powerful social media conglomerates, the press, the myriad media outlets and through the medium of the entertainment juggernaut, Hollywood. In addition to this, there are several exclusive clubs in the US the members of which are the powerful and the rich. They exert enormous influence on the American Government and to a certain extent ensure that their narrative is implemented by the ruling dispensation irrespective of the political affiliation of the Government of the day.
Sood describes in great detail the narrative built up by the Bush administration soon after 9/11 regarding the weapons of mass destruction that were supposedly in the possession of Saddam Hussein. This narrative was peddled far and wide and it formed the only basis on which Iraq was pummelled to kingdom come utilising deadly ordnance and crippling sanctions. Probably the only reason why the Americans did what they did was to make sure that they had a say in the world energy markets through the control of the vast oil resources available in Iraq. The same was the case with Iran, where they destabilised an elected government and installed a pliable ruler in the form of the Shah of Iran. A stage came in the geopolitics of West Asia when the Americans wanted to punish the Ayothollas for cocking the snook at them. Hence, they actively supported Saddam Hussein of Iraq to wage a pointless war against Iran that lasted for close to a decade which made sure that both the countries regressed by decades. Surprisingly, the Americans were largely successful in propagating their narrative during these tumultuous world events. It is only after the dawn of the Internet age with ubiquitous cyber access reaching every home, that people across the world slowly became aware of the devilish nature of countries that drive narratives for their selfish ends.
Britain was another country that played the great game of building up false narratives. The narrative of European and racial superiority was built up by the British Empire so assiduously that the natives in many British colonies came to look upon them as a divine race who was destined to rule the “heathens” and purge them of their “pagan religions” and a “savage” way of life. It is only now, well into the twenty-first century that the erstwhile colonies have come to realise the gargantuan scale of the loot that was perpetrated by the British in the garb of uplifting the “downtrodden” in the colonies. Clever narratives spun by the European colonisers made sure that the natives remained subjugated through centuries.
The author analyses the capabilities of Russia and China in trying to build up narratives. It is common knowledge that Putin actively interfered in the 2016 American Presidential election thereby giving the Americans a bitter taste of their own medicine. The Russians were quite successful in sowing the seeds of dissension in American society which led to large-scale and unprecedented racial unrest in 2020. This caused a major dent in the burnished image that America had been projecting to the world.
The Chinese are also major players in the game of building up narratives given the unflinching determination of the Chinese Communist Party to catapult the nation as the sole superpower thereby posing a credible threat to the Americans. The Americans on their part do not leave any stone unturned to discredit the Chinese with whatever tools come their way. The inherent weakness of Chinese propaganda is that the reach of the audience they can address using Mandarin is limited. The West is in an advantageous position owing to the widespread use of English. The Chinese are however not lacking in their game, and they have spread their influence to large parts of Africa and the Middle East mainly through the power of lucre which is used to grease the palms of corrupt leaders in many third world nations. The Covid pandemic and the downturn in the Chinese economy have been major roadblocks in the Chinese quest to expand their influence across the world. But as history shows the Chinese as a race always bounce back as they are known to be resilient and are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that their country comes out on top.
Towards the end of the book, Sood expectedly focuses on India. Sood talks in glowing terms about the present dispensation and the efforts that are on to project the country in a favourable light on the world stage. He gives a vivid and interesting account of modern Indian history and the peculiar Indian trait that was on display soon after Independence where we tried to deconstruct our glorious past. The pain of the Mughal invasion, the pillage by the British colonisers and the acquiescence of the post-independence political class to the demonisation of the Indian heritage by vested Western interests figures in an informative essay at the end of the book.
The Ultimate Goal is a very well-researched work as is evident from the exhaustive notes and bibliography appended to the work. The references that Sood quotes are exhaustive. This, I feel is a book that one would love to get back to read one essay at a time – and savour the richness of the material within. This well-researched work from a top-notch sleuth is highly recommended. It should undoubtedly find a place in the reading list of anyone interested in modern-day geopolitics.
It is quite apparent that the author does not hold the West and in particular the US in high esteem. Right from the word go, Sood deconstructs the secrets behind the massive operation that is mounted by the Americans to get their version of the story out in the world. Sood leaves no stone unturned to bring to light the duplicitous machinations that the Americans have been up to all across the world with the sole purpose of protecting their interests. It is another matter that they have managed to create more problems in the world because of the dangerous double games they have been playing. The Americans manage to paint an alluring picture of their country through powerful social media conglomerates, the press, the myriad media outlets and through the medium of the entertainment juggernaut, Hollywood. In addition to this, there are several exclusive clubs in the US the members of which are the powerful and the rich. They exert enormous influence on the American Government and to a certain extent ensure that their narrative is implemented by the ruling dispensation irrespective of the political affiliation of the Government of the day.
Sood describes in great detail the narrative built up by the Bush administration soon after 9/11 regarding the weapons of mass destruction that were supposedly in the possession of Saddam Hussein. This narrative was peddled far and wide and it formed the only basis on which Iraq was pummelled to kingdom come utilising deadly ordnance and crippling sanctions. Probably the only reason why the Americans did what they did was to make sure that they had a say in the world energy markets through the control of the vast oil resources available in Iraq. The same was the case with Iran, where they destabilised an elected government and installed a pliable ruler in the form of the Shah of Iran. A stage came in the geopolitics of West Asia when the Americans wanted to punish the Ayothollas for cocking the snook at them. Hence, they actively supported Saddam Hussein of Iraq to wage a pointless war against Iran that lasted for close to a decade which made sure that both the countries regressed by decades. Surprisingly, the Americans were largely successful in propagating their narrative during these tumultuous world events. It is only after the dawn of the Internet age with ubiquitous cyber access reaching every home, that people across the world slowly became aware of the devilish nature of countries that drive narratives for their selfish ends.
Britain was another country that played the great game of building up false narratives. The narrative of European and racial superiority was built up by the British Empire so assiduously that the natives in many British colonies came to look upon them as a divine race who was destined to rule the “heathens” and purge them of their “pagan religions” and a “savage” way of life. It is only now, well into the twenty-first century that the erstwhile colonies have come to realise the gargantuan scale of the loot that was perpetrated by the British in the garb of uplifting the “downtrodden” in the colonies. Clever narratives spun by the European colonisers made sure that the natives remained subjugated through centuries.
The author analyses the capabilities of Russia and China in trying to build up narratives. It is common knowledge that Putin actively interfered in the 2016 American Presidential election thereby giving the Americans a bitter taste of their own medicine. The Russians were quite successful in sowing the seeds of dissension in American society which led to large-scale and unprecedented racial unrest in 2020. This caused a major dent in the burnished image that America had been projecting to the world.
The Chinese are also major players in the game of building up narratives given the unflinching determination of the Chinese Communist Party to catapult the nation as the sole superpower thereby posing a credible threat to the Americans. The Americans on their part do not leave any stone unturned to discredit the Chinese with whatever tools come their way. The inherent weakness of Chinese propaganda is that the reach of the audience they can address using Mandarin is limited. The West is in an advantageous position owing to the widespread use of English. The Chinese are however not lacking in their game, and they have spread their influence to large parts of Africa and the Middle East mainly through the power of lucre which is used to grease the palms of corrupt leaders in many third world nations. The Covid pandemic and the downturn in the Chinese economy have been major roadblocks in the Chinese quest to expand their influence across the world. But as history shows the Chinese as a race always bounce back as they are known to be resilient and are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that their country comes out on top.
Towards the end of the book, Sood expectedly focuses on India. Sood talks in glowing terms about the present dispensation and the efforts that are on to project the country in a favourable light on the world stage. He gives a vivid and interesting account of modern Indian history and the peculiar Indian trait that was on display soon after Independence where we tried to deconstruct our glorious past. The pain of the Mughal invasion, the pillage by the British colonisers and the acquiescence of the post-independence political class to the demonisation of the Indian heritage by vested Western interests figures in an informative essay at the end of the book.
The Ultimate Goal is a very well-researched work as is evident from the exhaustive notes and bibliography appended to the work. The references that Sood quotes are exhaustive. This, I feel is a book that one would love to get back to read one essay at a time – and savour the richness of the material within. This well-researched work from a top-notch sleuth is highly recommended. It should undoubtedly find a place in the reading list of anyone interested in modern-day geopolitics.
December 19, 2020
“The Ultimate Goal” by Vikram Sood
Vikram Sood, former chief of RAW (Research and Analysis Wing- India’s external intelligence agency) explores the power of purposeful narratives – and how the self-proclaimed powerful countries have used it to create and sustain their own powers in the intricate game of political statecraft. “A narrative may not necessarily be based on truth, but it does need to be plausible, have a meaning and create a desired perception”
This book talks about something that any thinking individual would be aware of – The author here gives us the concrete evidence of the same with fact based data. Sood draws the curtain from the western concept of ‘nationalism’, which is limited to suit its own ends. In his own words “Nationalism in other countries has never been an accepted ideology in the West”; “ Retention of influence and privilege has been the endeavor of the Big Powers through periodic exhibition of power and a constant narrative”.
It throws light on how the so-called world leaders aggressively dominate and influence world opinion through well timed and well researched narratives.
The book is divided into 12 chapters with each of the chapters dealing with a country’s role in creating its own narrative- including a chapter on the role of Hollywood as a narrative factory for the West- esp the US and the corporates role in creating worldwide narrative based purely on capitalist profit, and one chapter on India. It also explores the role of worldwide Intelligence agencies such as CIA and the KGB in subtle propaganda of the narrative that is desired by each country.
The nexus between the governments, intelligence agencies and the media has contributed to the spread of propaganda for the powerful nations – helping them stay more powerful. The book also briefly peeps into the lacunae that Indian media has in the international market. “ India has nothing beyond its borders. Very few Indian publications have any presence in important locations in the neighbourhood and much less in other important capitals in the world. They mostly rely on Western news agencies for coverage of events, which means that in many cases, we end up believing the Western interpretation of events beyond our borders.”
While the world citizens hanker for peace, especially in areas of strife and violence – this book opens the readers’ eyes to the profitability of war for countries who are the major weapon makers. “ Wars are profitable, esp for a country that exports the largest amount of weaponry and equipment in the world. Wars are essential for the consumption, replacement and improvement of weapons and weapon systems; otherwise the industry would become moribund. All weapons come with a use-by date, but they must be used periodically for profits to roll in. Wars fought by other powers and not on one’s own territory are doubly profitable, not only for the manufacturers of the weapons but for ancillary industries that provide the logistics as well….as long as the world must deal with the military- industrial-intelligence- technology complex working in tandem in the US, this hidden narrative will not change. There will be wars to make more wars.” The book attempts to give a fact based, account of the way the world leaders use all resources in their power to create and tell their stories to the world – not as they are but as they want it to be known. “…Grand statements about liberty, democracy and freedom are essential for an overarching all time narrative. Profit in national interest in the bottom line.”
In the chapter on “Empires, Immigration, Nationalism and Islam”, the author explores the Anglo-American partnership to own the oil market as well as uphold the ‘White man supremacy’. “Richard Falk, professor of International Relations at Princeton University, once said that Western foreign policy as propagated through the media was a self righteous, one-way moral screen, reflecting positive images of Western values and its innocence portrayed as threatened, which then validated a campaign for unrestricted violence….. Nationalism is evil and dangerous if it is neither American nor British because, by its very nature, this would at some stage or the other conflict with Western interests.” While there is an attempt to be objective, one cannot miss the tilt towards the right wing ideology. Surprisingly, it does not feel out of place.
The chapters on China and Russia deeply delve into the struggle for power of these two countries vis-à-vis the West. Sood brings to light the superficial war of ideologies of democracy vis-à-vis communism; capitalism vis-à-vis socialism where the jargon is used as a means to the real end which lies in real power over the resources of the world. Putin’s role in the rise of Trump makes an interesting read in this part of the book. The power hungry Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s claim to glory in his attempt to become the next ‘Mao’ or the premature hubris of China on the world stage is something the world has to worry about.
Given the fact that the author is an Indian, the chapter on India really leaves one wanting for more. The Indian corporate scene is conspicuous by its absence. As the author himself says in the introduction “I have relied extensively on the Western sources, as global narratives in the past 150 years have emerged mostly from there…… References to India are from within the nation, because that’s where the genuine Indian narrative lies; especially the young, who constitute the majority and to whom the future belongs. It is important to understand them and project their points of view if India is to build its own narrative. It is to them that this book attempts to explain how the real world works, without being judgmental”
A book whose ideas and thoughts definitely go beyond the data and information given within its pages. Vikram Sood gently pushes the readers to separate the grain from the chaff and use a discerning mind while trying to make sense of the world.
Vikram Sood, former chief of RAW (Research and Analysis Wing- India’s external intelligence agency) explores the power of purposeful narratives – and how the self-proclaimed powerful countries have used it to create and sustain their own powers in the intricate game of political statecraft. “A narrative may not necessarily be based on truth, but it does need to be plausible, have a meaning and create a desired perception”
This book talks about something that any thinking individual would be aware of – The author here gives us the concrete evidence of the same with fact based data. Sood draws the curtain from the western concept of ‘nationalism’, which is limited to suit its own ends. In his own words “Nationalism in other countries has never been an accepted ideology in the West”; “ Retention of influence and privilege has been the endeavor of the Big Powers through periodic exhibition of power and a constant narrative”.
It throws light on how the so-called world leaders aggressively dominate and influence world opinion through well timed and well researched narratives.
The book is divided into 12 chapters with each of the chapters dealing with a country’s role in creating its own narrative- including a chapter on the role of Hollywood as a narrative factory for the West- esp the US and the corporates role in creating worldwide narrative based purely on capitalist profit, and one chapter on India. It also explores the role of worldwide Intelligence agencies such as CIA and the KGB in subtle propaganda of the narrative that is desired by each country.
The nexus between the governments, intelligence agencies and the media has contributed to the spread of propaganda for the powerful nations – helping them stay more powerful. The book also briefly peeps into the lacunae that Indian media has in the international market. “ India has nothing beyond its borders. Very few Indian publications have any presence in important locations in the neighbourhood and much less in other important capitals in the world. They mostly rely on Western news agencies for coverage of events, which means that in many cases, we end up believing the Western interpretation of events beyond our borders.”
While the world citizens hanker for peace, especially in areas of strife and violence – this book opens the readers’ eyes to the profitability of war for countries who are the major weapon makers. “ Wars are profitable, esp for a country that exports the largest amount of weaponry and equipment in the world. Wars are essential for the consumption, replacement and improvement of weapons and weapon systems; otherwise the industry would become moribund. All weapons come with a use-by date, but they must be used periodically for profits to roll in. Wars fought by other powers and not on one’s own territory are doubly profitable, not only for the manufacturers of the weapons but for ancillary industries that provide the logistics as well….as long as the world must deal with the military- industrial-intelligence- technology complex working in tandem in the US, this hidden narrative will not change. There will be wars to make more wars.” The book attempts to give a fact based, account of the way the world leaders use all resources in their power to create and tell their stories to the world – not as they are but as they want it to be known. “…Grand statements about liberty, democracy and freedom are essential for an overarching all time narrative. Profit in national interest in the bottom line.”
In the chapter on “Empires, Immigration, Nationalism and Islam”, the author explores the Anglo-American partnership to own the oil market as well as uphold the ‘White man supremacy’. “Richard Falk, professor of International Relations at Princeton University, once said that Western foreign policy as propagated through the media was a self righteous, one-way moral screen, reflecting positive images of Western values and its innocence portrayed as threatened, which then validated a campaign for unrestricted violence….. Nationalism is evil and dangerous if it is neither American nor British because, by its very nature, this would at some stage or the other conflict with Western interests.” While there is an attempt to be objective, one cannot miss the tilt towards the right wing ideology. Surprisingly, it does not feel out of place.
The chapters on China and Russia deeply delve into the struggle for power of these two countries vis-à-vis the West. Sood brings to light the superficial war of ideologies of democracy vis-à-vis communism; capitalism vis-à-vis socialism where the jargon is used as a means to the real end which lies in real power over the resources of the world. Putin’s role in the rise of Trump makes an interesting read in this part of the book. The power hungry Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s claim to glory in his attempt to become the next ‘Mao’ or the premature hubris of China on the world stage is something the world has to worry about.
Given the fact that the author is an Indian, the chapter on India really leaves one wanting for more. The Indian corporate scene is conspicuous by its absence. As the author himself says in the introduction “I have relied extensively on the Western sources, as global narratives in the past 150 years have emerged mostly from there…… References to India are from within the nation, because that’s where the genuine Indian narrative lies; especially the young, who constitute the majority and to whom the future belongs. It is important to understand them and project their points of view if India is to build its own narrative. It is to them that this book attempts to explain how the real world works, without being judgmental”
A book whose ideas and thoughts definitely go beyond the data and information given within its pages. Vikram Sood gently pushes the readers to separate the grain from the chaff and use a discerning mind while trying to make sense of the world.
January 27, 2023
The Ultimate Goal by Vikram Sood is full of bigoted statements, far fetched theories and doublespeak.
Writer while explaining how great powers construct narratives, has tried to propogate his own narrow minded narrative of the world.
Whole book has multiple examples where writer indulges to play the both sides of the coin to prove his point. In one paragraph he accuses USA of letting go of idealistic and humanitarian policies in favor of practical and selfish policies and in the very next paragraph accuses Indian leaders like pandit Nehru of not doing the same.
Again somewhere author tries to put the whole blame of mess in middle East on USA and the wrongdoings it has done to muslims and elsewhere he tries to prove that muslims are the root cause of all the problems of western world.
In the end the whole part where he wants to summarise the lessons from the Indian point of view, author fails completely and his bigoted world view become clear for all to see.
In short the book is less about how narratives are formed and more about forming and propogating a narrative that author believes in.
Writer while explaining how great powers construct narratives, has tried to propogate his own narrow minded narrative of the world.
Whole book has multiple examples where writer indulges to play the both sides of the coin to prove his point. In one paragraph he accuses USA of letting go of idealistic and humanitarian policies in favor of practical and selfish policies and in the very next paragraph accuses Indian leaders like pandit Nehru of not doing the same.
Again somewhere author tries to put the whole blame of mess in middle East on USA and the wrongdoings it has done to muslims and elsewhere he tries to prove that muslims are the root cause of all the problems of western world.
In the end the whole part where he wants to summarise the lessons from the Indian point of view, author fails completely and his bigoted world view become clear for all to see.
In short the book is less about how narratives are formed and more about forming and propogating a narrative that author believes in.
January 12, 2024
If India was a superpower as of today, what would be her story? Vikram Sood, an ex R&AW chief analyzes the ins and outs of narrative building taking into perspective the actions of the USA, erstwhile USSR (followed by Russia), as well as our hostile neighbour China. All these countries have established - at one point or another - throughout the globe of how they should be the centre of the global order. The USA has established since long its ideological supremacy, USSR/Russia has led information warfare whereas China resorts to the argument of 'Middle Kingdom' and deeply desires to re-establish its status in the middle ages (as we see today with the Belt and Road initiative). The author circles it all with the ending chapter being on India - our blunders. How we have not yet begun to truly understand our history or even study it. How we are afraid to be labelled as 'majoritarian' or 'fundamentalist' for simply seeking self interest as a nation and civilization.
This book is necessary when it comes to shaping and placing India in the world order and giving her the glory she deserves by letting her tell her own story; rather than to let others tell it for her.
This book is necessary when it comes to shaping and placing India in the world order and giving her the glory she deserves by letting her tell her own story; rather than to let others tell it for her.
June 11, 2023
"The Ultimate Goal: A Former R&AW Chief Deconstructs How Nations Construct Narratives" by Vikram Sood is a remarkable and instructive book that presents a distinctive viewpoint on the process of creating a nation and the function of stories in creating national identities. As a former head of India's external intelligence agency, Sood has accumulated a wealth of knowledge that he draws on to offer readers insightful analysis on this difficult topic.
Sood immediately captivates readers with his deep comprehension and knowledge. He deconstructs the method through which nations create narratives with competence, exposing the numerous factors, tactics, and motivations at work. He creates a thorough picture of how governments, intelligence services, and powerful figures create narratives to sway the public and further their objectives by looking at case studies from around the globe.
This book stands out because of Sood's ability to sort through the complex web of facts and deliver it in an understandable way. His careful balancing of academic rigour and captivating storytelling makes it possible for readers from all backgrounds to understand the concepts and ideas being presented. It is enjoyable to delve into the complexities of nation-building because of the author's educational and thought-provoking writing style.
The capacity of Sood to place the facts within historical, political, and socio-cultural contexts enhances his profound insights. He looks at how different countries balance their authority, the effects of technology, and how the media spreads and shapes stories. This all-encompassing approach enables readers to obtain a thorough understanding of the topic and its significance in today's interconnected world. Sood is not afraid to address the moral implications of creating national myths. He conducts a critical analysis of the use of propaganda, misinformation, and manipulation and raises significant issues regarding the duty of governments and citizens to recognise and respond to these narratives. The book's material is given depth and consideration by this ethical investigation, which invites readers to consider their own roles as consumers and contributors to national narratives.
The book "The Ultimate Goal" is a testimonial to Sood's extensive knowledge and his skill at concisely and precisely expressing difficult concepts. The book is thoroughly researched, and Sood uses a variety of sources and personal experiences to bolster his claims. Whether you are a scholar, a journalist, or simply a curious reader interested in geopolitics and nation-building, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and insights that will leave you informed and intellectually stimulated.
In conclusion, the outstanding work "The Ultimate Goal: A Former R&AW Chief Deconstructs How Nations Construct Narratives" merits the greatest praise. Anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of nation-building and the influence of narratives in influencing our world will find this book to be an invaluable resource thanks to Vikram Sood's knowledge, his ability to simplify complicated ideas, and his astute analysis. Your comprehension of modern geopolitics will definitely increase after reading this stimulating and educational book.
Sood immediately captivates readers with his deep comprehension and knowledge. He deconstructs the method through which nations create narratives with competence, exposing the numerous factors, tactics, and motivations at work. He creates a thorough picture of how governments, intelligence services, and powerful figures create narratives to sway the public and further their objectives by looking at case studies from around the globe.
This book stands out because of Sood's ability to sort through the complex web of facts and deliver it in an understandable way. His careful balancing of academic rigour and captivating storytelling makes it possible for readers from all backgrounds to understand the concepts and ideas being presented. It is enjoyable to delve into the complexities of nation-building because of the author's educational and thought-provoking writing style.
The capacity of Sood to place the facts within historical, political, and socio-cultural contexts enhances his profound insights. He looks at how different countries balance their authority, the effects of technology, and how the media spreads and shapes stories. This all-encompassing approach enables readers to obtain a thorough understanding of the topic and its significance in today's interconnected world. Sood is not afraid to address the moral implications of creating national myths. He conducts a critical analysis of the use of propaganda, misinformation, and manipulation and raises significant issues regarding the duty of governments and citizens to recognise and respond to these narratives. The book's material is given depth and consideration by this ethical investigation, which invites readers to consider their own roles as consumers and contributors to national narratives.
The book "The Ultimate Goal" is a testimonial to Sood's extensive knowledge and his skill at concisely and precisely expressing difficult concepts. The book is thoroughly researched, and Sood uses a variety of sources and personal experiences to bolster his claims. Whether you are a scholar, a journalist, or simply a curious reader interested in geopolitics and nation-building, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and insights that will leave you informed and intellectually stimulated.
In conclusion, the outstanding work "The Ultimate Goal: A Former R&AW Chief Deconstructs How Nations Construct Narratives" merits the greatest praise. Anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of nation-building and the influence of narratives in influencing our world will find this book to be an invaluable resource thanks to Vikram Sood's knowledge, his ability to simplify complicated ideas, and his astute analysis. Your comprehension of modern geopolitics will definitely increase after reading this stimulating and educational book.
November 26, 2020
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗮𝗹: 𝗔 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗥&𝗔𝗪 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀
★★★★★
In this fascinating and precise book, Vikram Sood solely explained how countries construct narrative and make themselves powerful periodically also with the help of some hostile policies.
Sood led the way India’s external intelligence agency and knows how agencies like America’s CIA and the Russian KGB contributed to controlling narratives.
The book starts with an engaging case study of the assassination of American President John F Kennedy and touches on how the strong connived to build a narrative that JFK had been shot from behind by a lone assassin while there was evidence, incorporating from a spectator, that the former President had taken bullets from the front and three directions. This shocking and vicious incident happened in world's oldest democracy, which prides itself on its system justice, fair play and free speech, and conveys to the world an almost narcissistic belief in its purity, benevolence and nobility of purpose.
This book is a detailed factual account and is not a critique of global systems and narratives. This book also explains how India took a different political flavour against socialist Nehruvian India and, instead, become supportive of pliable and useful politicians and generals in Pakistan. This book also deals with the narrative of the hugely powerful and profitable military-industrial complex and its increasingly widening ambit and America's role as the reluctant Imperialist, imperialism and nationalism and Islam.
This is an enchanting book that exhibits the reader how governments, the world over, and their intelligence agencies push narratives in their attempt to accomplish the “ultimate goal” of domination.
@harpercollinsin
#readwithak #readwithhci
★★★★★
In this fascinating and precise book, Vikram Sood solely explained how countries construct narrative and make themselves powerful periodically also with the help of some hostile policies.
Sood led the way India’s external intelligence agency and knows how agencies like America’s CIA and the Russian KGB contributed to controlling narratives.
The book starts with an engaging case study of the assassination of American President John F Kennedy and touches on how the strong connived to build a narrative that JFK had been shot from behind by a lone assassin while there was evidence, incorporating from a spectator, that the former President had taken bullets from the front and three directions. This shocking and vicious incident happened in world's oldest democracy, which prides itself on its system justice, fair play and free speech, and conveys to the world an almost narcissistic belief in its purity, benevolence and nobility of purpose.
This book is a detailed factual account and is not a critique of global systems and narratives. This book also explains how India took a different political flavour against socialist Nehruvian India and, instead, become supportive of pliable and useful politicians and generals in Pakistan. This book also deals with the narrative of the hugely powerful and profitable military-industrial complex and its increasingly widening ambit and America's role as the reluctant Imperialist, imperialism and nationalism and Islam.
This is an enchanting book that exhibits the reader how governments, the world over, and their intelligence agencies push narratives in their attempt to accomplish the “ultimate goal” of domination.
@harpercollinsin
#readwithak #readwithhci
May 17, 2023
In 'The Ultimate Goal' by Vikram Sood, readers are provided with exceptional insights into the narrative-building machinery employed by powerful nation-states, with a particular focus on the United States. This book not only offers valuable lessons for aspiring nations seeking to play a significant role on the international stage but also highlights the importance of setting strategic goals to project power both domestically and abroad.
The book delves into the intricacies of narrative construction, shedding light on the various techniques and strategies deployed by influential nation-states, most notably the United States. Through in-depth analysis and compelling examples, he provides readers with exceptional insights into how narratives are shaped and wielded as a powerful tool of influence.
While 'The Ultimate Goal' effectively explores the narrative-building approaches employed by the United States, it does not delve sufficiently into the nuances of how these strategies can be adapted to suit India's unique context. Given the significant cultural and geopolitical differences between the United States and India, it is essential for future narrative builders to consider alternative approaches that align with India's civilizational identity and aspirations.
While the book offers valuable insights into the art of narrative construction, I look forward to a potential follow-up where the author provides a more comprehensive exploration of how India can strategically shape its own narratives. It would be beneficial to see specific recommendations or case studies that offer a directional roadmap for future narrative builders in India, encouraging thought-provoking discussions and guiding them towards their ultimate goals.
Overall, a must read book!
The book delves into the intricacies of narrative construction, shedding light on the various techniques and strategies deployed by influential nation-states, most notably the United States. Through in-depth analysis and compelling examples, he provides readers with exceptional insights into how narratives are shaped and wielded as a powerful tool of influence.
While 'The Ultimate Goal' effectively explores the narrative-building approaches employed by the United States, it does not delve sufficiently into the nuances of how these strategies can be adapted to suit India's unique context. Given the significant cultural and geopolitical differences between the United States and India, it is essential for future narrative builders to consider alternative approaches that align with India's civilizational identity and aspirations.
While the book offers valuable insights into the art of narrative construction, I look forward to a potential follow-up where the author provides a more comprehensive exploration of how India can strategically shape its own narratives. It would be beneficial to see specific recommendations or case studies that offer a directional roadmap for future narrative builders in India, encouraging thought-provoking discussions and guiding them towards their ultimate goals.
Overall, a must read book!
November 16, 2024
As I read this book, I realised that the narratives shared by Mr. Sood was brought forward before COVID-19 and the Biden Presidency. With an impeding Trump presidency, there's a lot more that the book can add if it was written today.
Still, I felt the book to be very combative in the first few chapters. It obviously had a lot of shock value and poking holes at the dominant Western narrative definitely does turn heads. The amount of literature and research that was present in the first few chapters was notably reduced in the later bits given, presumably, the lack of evidence and proof of the Russian and Chinese narratives.
My favourite chapter was the last one which extolled India to reclaim an active role in its narrative setting based on its rich history. Reading the chapter gave me a feeling of optimism that was absent throughout the rest of the book. I can appreciate the strides that India has made in the last 4 years to be on top of the global narrative in its favor while battling effectively the usual biases harbored by the West and fanned by anti-national elements.
I can definitely discern a shift in my thinking as I tackle the usual social issues. My thinking feels more meta than before and I have a tendency to look at the larger narrative any news item can benefit. Gives me clarity but at the cost of mental and emotional anguish at the true, sordid state of affairs.
This is a book I might return to in the future to solidify my research and sharpen my thinking which may be muddied by specific agendas and a wave of news items. However, the question that lingers in my head throughout - Is this book also just another narrative? Is it truly possible to cover something without bias?
Still, I felt the book to be very combative in the first few chapters. It obviously had a lot of shock value and poking holes at the dominant Western narrative definitely does turn heads. The amount of literature and research that was present in the first few chapters was notably reduced in the later bits given, presumably, the lack of evidence and proof of the Russian and Chinese narratives.
My favourite chapter was the last one which extolled India to reclaim an active role in its narrative setting based on its rich history. Reading the chapter gave me a feeling of optimism that was absent throughout the rest of the book. I can appreciate the strides that India has made in the last 4 years to be on top of the global narrative in its favor while battling effectively the usual biases harbored by the West and fanned by anti-national elements.
I can definitely discern a shift in my thinking as I tackle the usual social issues. My thinking feels more meta than before and I have a tendency to look at the larger narrative any news item can benefit. Gives me clarity but at the cost of mental and emotional anguish at the true, sordid state of affairs.
This is a book I might return to in the future to solidify my research and sharpen my thinking which may be muddied by specific agendas and a wave of news items. However, the question that lingers in my head throughout - Is this book also just another narrative? Is it truly possible to cover something without bias?
November 10, 2024
“The Ultimate Goal” by Vikram Sood is an eye-opening exploration of how powerful nations—particularly the U.S. and U.K.—have shaped global narratives to serve their own interests, often at the expense of human lives, global development, and peace. The author reveals the extent to which these countries have wielded influence and control, unpacking their motives of greed and dominance with insightful clarity.
One striking example is the U.S. use of Hollywood, where CIA involvement subtly influenced films and media to promote certain ideologies, shaping public perception to align with American interests. Sood also discusses regime changes in the Middle East, where U.S. narratives shifted strategically over time to justify interventions—ensuring influence as long as it served American agendas.
The author, a former intelligence official, takes us through examples of narrative-building across decades, examining not just Western powers but also giving thought-provoking insights into China and Russia. In several chapters, he connects these themes with India, concluding with a discussion on India’s own journey—or missed opportunities—in narrative-building on the global stage.
While I would have appreciated a deeper dive into the India chapter, given Sood’s background with RAW, this is a minor note in an otherwise impactful read. Highly recommended for anyone curious about the hidden forces shaping our world today.
One striking example is the U.S. use of Hollywood, where CIA involvement subtly influenced films and media to promote certain ideologies, shaping public perception to align with American interests. Sood also discusses regime changes in the Middle East, where U.S. narratives shifted strategically over time to justify interventions—ensuring influence as long as it served American agendas.
The author, a former intelligence official, takes us through examples of narrative-building across decades, examining not just Western powers but also giving thought-provoking insights into China and Russia. In several chapters, he connects these themes with India, concluding with a discussion on India’s own journey—or missed opportunities—in narrative-building on the global stage.
While I would have appreciated a deeper dive into the India chapter, given Sood’s background with RAW, this is a minor note in an otherwise impactful read. Highly recommended for anyone curious about the hidden forces shaping our world today.
August 6, 2021
‘Everything you read in a newspaper or hear on a radio, every question asked and answered, is the outcome of a human decision to accord it priority over another item.’
The study on how the west and US constructed its narrative throughout the 20th century and beyond was eye opening. The power narratives and its builders hold is truly a force to be reckoned with.
'Saying that the US had liberating traditions was like ‘saying Hollywood has a tradition of artistic excellence’. Hollywood’s motive was profit, not revealing the truth; aesthetic films were made by accident. Thus, narratives are created. They do not need to have truth on their side. They only need a meaning.
Russia and China story also comes into prominence but is unmatched by the narrative command of the west.
For India he disagrees that Hindu India would be majoritarianism and an exhibition of Hindu chauvinism and Hindu nationalism. He defends that Hinduism has never resorted to violent conversions, nor has it ever considered dissent sacrilege. He says that our narrative should be a mixture of the ancient and the modern.
Don't agree with everything written but appreciate the fresh narrative!
The study on how the west and US constructed its narrative throughout the 20th century and beyond was eye opening. The power narratives and its builders hold is truly a force to be reckoned with.
'Saying that the US had liberating traditions was like ‘saying Hollywood has a tradition of artistic excellence’. Hollywood’s motive was profit, not revealing the truth; aesthetic films were made by accident. Thus, narratives are created. They do not need to have truth on their side. They only need a meaning.
Russia and China story also comes into prominence but is unmatched by the narrative command of the west.
For India he disagrees that Hindu India would be majoritarianism and an exhibition of Hindu chauvinism and Hindu nationalism. He defends that Hinduism has never resorted to violent conversions, nor has it ever considered dissent sacrilege. He says that our narrative should be a mixture of the ancient and the modern.
Don't agree with everything written but appreciate the fresh narrative!
June 1, 2025
Did I read this book because I wanted to read it or is it because it's part of someone's narrative.
This is the question I had as soon as I read this book, and I don't think I'll ever be able to read a news article or opinion again without questioning the reason for it's publication.
Given recent events and about the role of narratives in international politics, it's good to see that people in the government are aware of the lack of a positive narrative about India. The biggest challenge is identifying the problem which has now been done, now hopefully the government is working on remedying the situation.
The book talks about how Western powers have created a narrative about their country through various mediums from news to movies to books. At the same time, since weaker nations are not in control of the narrative about their country, it is left to the Western powers to write the narrative for them. The whole point is that warfare has a new dimension to it and it is now military, industrial, technology, and narrative.
This is the question I had as soon as I read this book, and I don't think I'll ever be able to read a news article or opinion again without questioning the reason for it's publication.
Given recent events and about the role of narratives in international politics, it's good to see that people in the government are aware of the lack of a positive narrative about India. The biggest challenge is identifying the problem which has now been done, now hopefully the government is working on remedying the situation.
The book talks about how Western powers have created a narrative about their country through various mediums from news to movies to books. At the same time, since weaker nations are not in control of the narrative about their country, it is left to the Western powers to write the narrative for them. The whole point is that warfare has a new dimension to it and it is now military, industrial, technology, and narrative.
May 4, 2023
Such an amazing book. First it explains how narratives are created by the western superpowers (particularly US and UK) to justify any immoral action as the most morally possible with the hand of god. Then it visits narratives of Russia and China, and then how Corporate world’s narratives allow the blind pursuit of profits and control yet no eyebrows are raised.
My favourite chapter was the last one, about India. 2 things are very well explained there:
1. What we know and taught about formation of Pakistan is all wrong and it was the UK itself which wanted to partition.
2. The current state of narrative about India around the world, especially as it relates to post-2014 Modi rule. This part is truly amazing. I would say when you start the book, first read the last chapter.
My favourite chapter was the last one, about India. 2 things are very well explained there:
1. What we know and taught about formation of Pakistan is all wrong and it was the UK itself which wanted to partition.
2. The current state of narrative about India around the world, especially as it relates to post-2014 Modi rule. This part is truly amazing. I would say when you start the book, first read the last chapter.
March 19, 2023
This is an incredible book every Indian youth must read. Since 2014, we have been going through a phase of confusion, debates about our country's history and so many theories/opinions about our current society. This book gives a beautiful insight into the forces behind these discussions taking place and how we must be vigilant and proactive instead of being reactive.
Amazing book by Vikram Sood.
Amazing book by Vikram Sood.
December 13, 2020
Eye opener!
One of the most informative book I have ever read and made me understand the Game of Narrative in World Politics.
Best part: Author does not claim any opinion of his own, instead, he has used real scenarios and data from history to showcase the points and leaves judgement upto the reader.
Take a bow Vikram Sood sir.
One of the most informative book I have ever read and made me understand the Game of Narrative in World Politics.
Best part: Author does not claim any opinion of his own, instead, he has used real scenarios and data from history to showcase the points and leaves judgement upto the reader.
Take a bow Vikram Sood sir.
March 20, 2021
The first well written book that achieves all the following objectives:
- Scathingly criticises Western governments, corporations and media by using facts and timelines that correlate with events.
- Sheds light on the perspective of Russia and China with dedicated chapters.
- Uses this as context for how India can do the same.
- Scathingly criticises Western governments, corporations and media by using facts and timelines that correlate with events.
- Sheds light on the perspective of Russia and China with dedicated chapters.
- Uses this as context for how India can do the same.
April 18, 2021
Excellent book to understand how narratives and perceptions are created by a few global and popular media controlled by Western governments and corporations who are rich and powerful. This book is a factual account of the storylines created by states to dominate and exercise control over less developed nations. Although it is a bit repetitive in bits and parts.
Nevertheless a must read!
Nevertheless a must read!
February 24, 2022
An honest eye opener to many things we forget in our day to day life. Explains in simple language a question we have forgotten we ever had?
Other counties with 80% majority do not mind being referred to as Christians or Islamic republic but when we have 80% Hindu population calling ourselves Hindu nation is an exhibition of Hindu Chauvinism or nationalism or extremism ..
Other counties with 80% majority do not mind being referred to as Christians or Islamic republic but when we have 80% Hindu population calling ourselves Hindu nation is an exhibition of Hindu Chauvinism or nationalism or extremism ..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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