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Prostitution And Beyond An Analysis Of Sex Workers
What is the diversity of perspectives on sex work in India today? This edited volume addresses this question through its sections on feminist discourse, ethnographic studies, socio-economic-legal-health frameworks and cultural reflections. The first section explores the space for women in prostitution within mainstream feminist discourse in India, and the way it has evolved over time. The second section emphasizes on the heterogeneity of sex work practices with their historical vestiges, contemporary manifestations and urban-rural contrasts. The third section examines the interface of society and prostitution, tracing economic and social undercurrents, health concerns and legal regulations. The final section focuses on the bearings of prostitution on the cultural spheres of literature, language, cinema, theatre and media. In addition to rigorous academic research, this volume also pools in case studies, live discussions and interviews, drawing the experience of a wide spectrum of professionals and organizations working with sex workers. This book is a must-read for professionals and academicians in the fields of Gender Studies, Sociology, Anthropology, Public Health and Social Work.
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The Essence Of The Gnostics An Illuminating Insigh
Long before there was a system of belief called Gnosticism there were those who reached for a special intimate knowledge of God and His mysterious ways. The possession of such knowledge, they believed, would bring salvation from suffering. All religious traditions acknowledge that the world is imperfect. Where they differ is in their explanations they offer for the imperfection - and what they suggest might be done about it. While many religions hold that Gnostics believed that the world is flawed because it was created in a flawed manner, thereby implicating the creator. Such a perspective was regarded as blasphemous by fellow-Christians at the dawn of the new religion, and led to the sect's persecution. Equally concerning were the Gnostics' liberal views regarding sex, the role of women, and toleration of other faiths. In The Essence of The Gnostics Bernard Simon offers a fascinating insight into this ancient and yet in many ways surprisingly contemporary faith, and explores the reason for its current renaissance.
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Byline
Byline anthologizes MJ Akbar’s finest writings over the last decade, bringing together essays that reflect the author’s versatility and range. The book is divided into six seamless sections, each with its own identity, which are woven together by MJ Akbar’s delectably informal prose. The writings reflect the author’s interest in such diverse topics as travel, politics, history, cricket among others.