The author’s ability to combine various variables in the study of exclusion leads to valuable insights. Policies like reservations often assume that economic empowerment alone can overcome feelings of inferiority among the excluded. However, the author’s comparison of economic, socio-cultural, religious, and geographical factors reveals that self-image cannot be transformed by addressing a single variable—multiple aspects need attention.

- Dr. Walter Fernandes
Director of North Eastern Social Research Centre (NESRC), Guwahati, Assam

The youth of fisherfolk are at the crossroads of transformational politics, and this book opens up new possibilities for them to think through their problems. Marking a decisive break and offering hope for future politics, this book will remain a powerful intervention and invitation to critical thinking and action.

- Dr. Sanal Mohan
Former Professor of History and Ethnography, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala

This book is a compelling and courageous study that brings to light the often-overlooked voices of marginalized coastal communities. The author offers a deeply human and sociologically grounded account of the identity crisis and systemic exclusion faced by fisherfolk youth in Kerala. This book challenges readers to engage critically with issues of justice, belonging, and the urgent need for inclusive social transformation.

- Prof. Dr. Thomas Karimundackal, SJ
Jnana Deepa, Pontifical Athenaeum of Philosophy and Theology, Pune

The Unanchored and Angered emerges from Benny Chiramel’s multidisciplinary research on the marginalized coastal communities of Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts, Kerala, India. With attention to how gender and religion intersect in their identity formation, Dr. Benny’s work urges readers to understand life through the lens of society's vulnerable sections and advocate for justice and inclusion.

-Dr. Kochurani Abraham
Feminist Theologian, Indian Women Theologians’ Forum (IWTF)

Contents

Preface
Acknowledgements
Foreword
List of Tables
List of Illustrations
Maps x
List of Abbreviations

1. Introduction

2. Towards an Analytical Framework for the Study of the Exclusion of the Fisherfolk Youth of Kerala

3. The Inter-Relationship of Exclusion, Aggression and Self-Esteem in the Context of Evolutionary Psychology

4. Methodology

5. Profile of Fisherfolk Youth

6. Cultural Exclusion

7. Political Exclusion

8. Economic Exclusion

9. Social Exclusion

10. Relationships Among Exclusion Variables, Demographic, Socio-economic, and Social Psychological Factors

11. Untold Stories of Exclusion: Voices and Experiences

12. Addressing Exclusion, Aggression, and Identity Challenges Among Fisherfolk Youth: A Path Forward

13. Epilogue: Sneharam - A Beacon of Inclusion

Select Bibliography
Appendices

Benny Chiramel is a leader in social justice and advocacy, currently serving as Director of the Education Ministry in the Kottapuram Diocese, Kerala. Formerly, as Director of Sneharam, Anchuthengu—a hub for Jesuits in Social Action (JESA)—he led initiatives to uplift coastal fishing communities and coordinated Lok Manch, a national programme, empowering marginalized groups to access their rights. Holding an M.S.W. and a Ph.D. from Nirmala Niketan, Mumbai University, he is dedicated to mobilizing communities, protecting human rights, and promoting sustainable fishing practices. His vision of justice and inclusion continues to inspire change and empower those often left behind.