After more than six decades of a highly participatory and contributory life as an adult in Australia, the author offers a supportive bicultural perspective of the land of his adoption. His in-depth analysis leads him to the conclusion that Australia can yet be a beacon to its neighbouring peoples through its egalitarianism, and its fabled ‘fair-go’ ethos, in spite of some significant deterioration of its society through the on-going breakdown of family, and a significant diminution of personal respect for one’s fellow humans. The scope of the narrative is wide, the analysis is deep and the commentary is incisive.
ENDORSEMENT
Raja Ratnam has lived a full life and made significant contributions to Australian life over six decades. His experience as an Asian in Australia from the time of White Australia to that of multiculturalism is unique. This book is a final distillation of the wisdom he has gained over that time. He provides insight into a wide range of areas from society and culture to religion. And even better, his insights reflect his unique experience. There is wisdom and here and, like all of his work, this book is rich, intelligent and provocative. A major contribution to Australian culture.
—Prof. Greg Melleuish, History & Politics, Wollongong University
