Hate & modernism

This refers to the article, “ >Using hate to challenge modernism ” (Oct. 6). I wonder what sort of modernism the writer aspires to promote by mentioning the works on beef-eating in Vedic India and the roots of prophetic revelation in epileptic disorders. While the former is an issue relating to history, the latter offends the religious sensibilities of a community which treats the divine revelations of the Prophet as sacred and undisputed word of god. Modernism will become meaningless if it does not control the hateful and offensive material ridiculing the faith of millions.

Samina Yasmin,

Jaipur

On paper, it is easy to say that emotions should not overrule rational thinking. But how long can this apply to our social life? Thousands come to the streets demanding action against a film-maker when he makes a film mocking our freedom fighters or national symbols. Likewise, when the Prophet is insulted by someone, thousands of believers are hurt. The action cannot be justified as freedom of expression. With freedom comes responsibility based on social norms.

Shahul Madeenathunnoor,

Kozhikode