The story of India- Beginnings 2

[Stereolabdream]

I am not "scared" by the word native, I just find it interesting that you used it when criticising someone for being patronising and/or racist.

Everyone makes mistakes and is guilty of adding their own humanity to their perception of history...humility in accepting that makes the better historian of us all...

[Stereolabdream]

First...my "greatest historian alive" comment needs qualifying, because as it stands it is hyperbole...Wood is, undisbutedly, an historian who has brought a love of heritage and the past to millions of people...certainly one of the most influentia in this regard in the English speaking world.

Second, you twice tell me "You're entitled to your opinion"...well, erm, I know that, I was hoping you would better justify YOUR opinion!

The native argument won't wash...more to follow...

[soulfulgirly]

The term "native" is okay to use. I lived in India and have many friends that are from there. Yes, because of what England did to it's land and to it's people, I am not surprised the term may scare some...But to suggest that I resemble any of the imperialist characteristics is laughable. But okay.

Once again, you are entitled to your opinion.

[soulfulgirly]

They need a different reporter. Look at the way he talks to the natives on the train. Horrible. So arrogant.  I shuttered at these people when I traveled. They are human beings and no less intelligent than you moron. I am sure he goes home and brags about his knowledge of India, but does he take the time to connect? I could report better than this guy.

[Stereolabdream]

@soulfulgirly You obviously have absolutely no background knowledge about Michael Wood. He is one of the most respected historians alive, and in each and every one of his programmes over the last 30 years has shown an uncanny ability to relate favourably to the people who meets in any culture.

I happen to know, after research, that he was advised to use that "accent" by his local interpretors.

Watch more Michael Wood (may I suggest "In Search of Alexander the Great") and you'll change opinion.

[Stereolabdream]

@soulfulgirly

Might I also suggest that your use of the term "native" is also a rather casual relic of imperialism....

People in glass houses should never throw stones...

[soulfulgirly]

@Stereolabdream Thank you for your suggestion and for defending who you think to be one of the "greatest historians alive". I am well aware of who Michael Wood is. It doesn't mean I have to share the same opinion as you.

[MikDonsen]

These bbc guys really are a laugh." Wow the wonder on india they've been inbreeding for 30000 years how grand". There's open mindedness and theres going to far.

[Rahavin1]

@MikDonsen I thought I had misheard when they talked about first cousins... took me a moment and then I thought the same thing... "So they've been inbreeding ever since?"

[mysteek29]

@Rahavin1 But at least one thing they can say for sure that no one else on the planet can say, they still have their identity and they started their own culture....

[mysteek29]

@MikDonsen

thats what all ancient civilizations did though...

[roshanram]

I really like the humility and the message of human brotherhood that the professor talks about.

[tipoomaster]

does anyone know a PBS promotion code that i can use to get a discount? i want to buy the DVD and book combo.