Scribd
Upload
60 views2 pages

Casteism

Casteism is prejudice and discrimination based on caste identity, particularly in hierarchical societies like India, where it perpetuates social inequality and oppression. It manifests in various forms including social, economic, political, and educational discrimination, and is criticized by sociologists such as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and M.N. Srinivas. Despite legal protections against caste-based discrimination, it continues to influence social dynamics and remains a significant barrier to equality and justice.

Uploaded by

subhikshask.official
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
60 views2 pages

Casteism

Casteism is prejudice and discrimination based on caste identity, particularly in hierarchical societies like India, where it perpetuates social inequality and oppression. It manifests in various forms including social, economic, political, and educational discrimination, and is criticized by sociologists such as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and M.N. Srinivas. Despite legal protections against caste-based discrimination, it continues to influence social dynamics and remains a significant barrier to equality and justice.

Uploaded by

subhikshask.official
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Casteism – Sociology Notes

Definition:

Casteism refers to prejudice, discrimination, or bias based on caste identity, particularly


in hierarchical societies like India where the caste system is deeply rooted. It involves
promoting the interests of one's own caste while actively discriminating against others.

Origin and Background:

 The caste system is a traditional form of social stratification found in South Asia,
especially in Hindu society.
 It divides people into rigid hierarchical groups (e.g., Brahmins, Kshatriyas,
Vaishyas, Shudras, and historically Dalits or "Untouchables").
 Casteism evolved as a social evil, perpetuating inequality, exclusion, and oppression.

Forms of Casteism:

1. Social Discrimination:
o Untouchability practices, segregation, denial of access to temples, water
sources, etc.
2. Economic Casteism:
o Unequal access to jobs, land ownership, and economic opportunities.
3. Political Casteism:
o Voting based on caste lines, caste-based political parties, and reservations
becoming politicized.
4. Educational Casteism:
o Bias in admission processes, discrimination in schools/colleges, bullying of
lower-caste students.
5. Marriage & Kinship:
o Endogamy (marriage within the same caste) is strictly followed, and inter-
caste marriages often face violence or social ostracism.

Key Sociologists on Casteism:

1. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar:


o Criticized caste as a source of social injustice.
o Advocated for Dalit rights and the annihilation of caste.
2. M.N. Srinivas:
o Introduced concepts like Sanskritization and Dominant Caste.
o Analyzed caste mobility and its persistence in modern India.
3. Andre Béteille:
o Highlighted the interplay of caste, class, and power in Indian society.

Impact of Casteism:

 Social inequality and exclusion.


 Violence and atrocities against Dalits and marginalized castes.
 Limited social mobility due to birth-based status.
 Polarization in politics and education.
 Perpetuation of traditional hierarchies, despite legal protections.

Legal and Constitutional Provisions (India):

 Article 15 & 17: Prohibit discrimination and abolish untouchability.


 Reservations (affirmative action) in education, jobs, and politics for SCs, STs, and
OBCs.
 SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act to address caste-based crimes.

Contemporary Relevance:

 Despite legal progress, caste-based discrimination persists in rural and urban areas.
 Online casteism (e.g., cyberbullying, caste pride groups).
 Caste continues to influence matrimonial choices, voting patterns, and social
status.

Conclusion:

Casteism remains a barrier to equality and social justice in modern society. Combating it
requires education, legal enforcement, awareness, and socio-political reform.

You might also like