Revisiting Malaysian Modernisation - essays on science, technology, religion and environment Mohd Hazim Shah

Much work on Malaysian modernisation focuses exclusively on its economic aspects, presenting the country as an exemplar of rapid growth and development. This collection of essays moves the debates on modernisation and modernity decisively beyond this rather one-dimensional view. It offers a bold series of reflections on the complex relationships between science, technology, religion and the environment, and how they have shaped the trajectory of modernisation. Drawing on insights from history, public policy, philosophy of science, environmental studies and religion – and the findings of detailed case studies – Revisiting Malaysian Modernisation addresses some of the most pressing issues of societal transformation: industrialisation, technological innovation, sustainability, religious values and civilisational engagement. This unusual and innovative approach allows readers to interrogate Malaysian modernisation in fresh ways, throwing light on the ‘illusion of success’ and pointing the way forward to a more humane path of development. This volume adds to the growing literature on alternative views of development and modernisation, with a focus on Malaysia.

English