Apocalypse Pakistan: An Anatomy of 'the World's Most Dangerous Nation'

摘要

The current state of Pakistan is messy and full of existential contradictions. The nation was built on a separate Muslim identity and on the pretext that in independent and integrated India the status of minorities would not be equal with Hindus. This notion was proved wrong as early as the 1950s, when political discourse in Pakistan turned more strongly towards religion than democratic principles. Consequently, Pakistan has become a safe haven for religious fundamentalists who trade in deadly violence and pose a threat to peace in the South Asian region. Although the illegitimate presence of 'third parties' cannot be ruled out elsewhere, for Pakistan these invisible forces have a particular leaning. The book under review gives a candid journalistic account of ground realities, and weaves a broader canvas by focusing on South Asia, and not just Pakistan.