Raj Shamani's Figuring Out

Vikas Divyakirti on India vs China, Power, Politics, Civic Sense, Trump & Modi|FO438 Raj Shamani

24 snips
Nov 27, 2025
Vikas Divyakirti, an educator and author known for his insights on politics and society, dives deep into India's geopolitical landscape. He explores the contrasting political cultures of Mumbai and Delhi and how trust, favoritism, and media influence shape power dynamics. Vikas discusses the emotional undercurrents in politics, the role of celebrity, and why perception often trumps substance in leadership. He also examines the tech race between America and China, India's position on the global stage, and the importance of civic sense in strengthening democracy.
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INSIGHT

Communication Trumps Competence

  • Political power often flows from communication and emotional persuasion rather than pure competence.
  • Vikas Divyakirti argues fear-based messaging and freebies shape voter behavior more than logical policies.
ANECDOTE

Offered Political Role, He Asked Why

  • Vikas recounts being indirectly offered a political role and weighing why politicians seek power.
  • He questioned whether politics is about selling products or serving people, illustrating his refusal mindset.
INSIGHT

Rational Voters Form A Small Minority

  • In large democracies, only a small educated minority responds to logical credibility and policy arguments.
  • Vikas estimates 1–2% are swayed by reasoned debate while most vote on emotion or identity.
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