- Racial Superiority: The British often viewed Indians as inferior to themselves based on race and culture. They believed that the British were inherently more advanced and civilized, and that Indians needed to be "civilized" and "modernized" by British rule.
- Paternalism: Some British officials and administrators adopted a paternalistic attitude towards Indians, viewing them as childlike and in need of guidance and protection. They believed that it was their duty to uplift the Indians and help them progress.
- Exploitation: Many British officials and businessmen saw India as a source of economic wealth and resources. They exploited the Indian economy, extracting resources and labor, while benefiting from the low cost of living and labor.
- Cultural Disdain: The British often held disdain for Indian culture, traditions, and customs. They viewed Indian society as backward and superstitious, and sought to impose Western values and institutions upon India.
Indian Attitudes towards British
- Resistance: Many Indians resented British rule and sought to resist it through various means, including armed rebellion, civil disobedience, and cultural revivalism.
- Collaboration: Some Indians collaborated with the British, either out of necessity, ambition, or a belief that it was the best way to achieve progress and modernization.
- Accommodation: Some Indians tried to accommodate the British presence by adopting Western education and values, while trying to maintain their own cultural identity.
- Cultural Revivalism: Many Indians sought to revive and reclaim their own culture, traditions, and heritage as a way of resisting British cultural hegemony.