Dutch publication Vrij Nederland interviewed Dasym senior researcher Haroon Sheikh about his new book Embedding Technopolis, which gives insight into the complex relationship between modernity and tradition.
In the interview, Sheikh explains the two sides of modernity: in the west most attention is focused on the positive sides such as prosperity, freedom and individualism. But modernity also is a destructive force, it uproots civilizations and can become a source of conflict when local traditions are completely disregarded.
Using both historical and current day examples – from the civil war in Yugoslavia to Islamic fundamentalism and nationalist sentiment – Sheikh argues that local traditions should have a position in the process of modernity. This would create a middle ground where hybrid forms can emerge.
Read the full article in Dutch here.
