Cultural Influences on Innovation: US and Indian Perspectives

In recent times, I have been encountering a plethora of pieces that degrade the western, or specifically American, way of life from some of the Indian writers, politicians, and propagandists. It seems as though I am bombarded with these ideas again and again, and I cannot help but take a closer look at them.

But then I ask myself, why shouldn’t the US have a leadership over everything? Despite its flaws, the US remains one of the most open countries in the world. To drive my point home, let me provide two examples. They can openly mock their President without fear of retribution. Their flag is not held on a pedestal as a symbol of holy nationalism; it can be used as clothing, a cape, or in any other way they see fit. The US has fostered a culture of openness and curiosity, which is evident in their numerous inventions and advancements. From Facebook to Google, many major innovations of the last 100 years have roots in the US. Meanwhile, India’s institutes of excellence like the IITs have been around for over 60 years, yet we still lag behind in research and invention. This is because Indian culture does not prioritize individualism or excellence; instead, it promotes reliance on society and traditions (even if they are flawed) while following established paths.

In India, going against the grain is challenging due to societal pressures. The rigid attitude of sticking to the familiar creates a barrier on the path to innovation, as it discourages exploration of new and uncharted territories. It stifles the spirit of curiosity and hinders progress by deterring individuals from taking risks and trying new approaches. Without stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown, true innovation cannot thrive. We must not be afraid to follow roads less travelled if we want to pave the way for groundbreaking ideas and advancements.

I must clarify that I do not mean to discredit Indian values or culture. However, it is clear that innovation is a byproduct of societal values and lifestyle. In this regard, the US has excelled in promoting an open-minded approach and modern values, despite its inevitable flaws as a powerful nation. On the other hand, I find it hard to imagine India playing such a leading role in science, technology, and global values anytime soon.