Santosh's Society: Where the Birth of a Son was a Blessing

Introduction:
Santosh was born in a society where the birth of a son was considered a blessing. This societal belief reflects a preference for male children over female children. In this answer, we will explore the reasons behind this preference and the implications it has on society.

Preference for Sons:
In many societies, including the one Santosh was born in, the preference for sons can be attributed to various factors:

1. Patriarchy: The society follows a patriarchal system where males hold more power and authority than females. Sons are seen as the carriers of the family name and lineage, ensuring its continuation.

2. Economic Reasons: Sons are often associated with economic benefits as they are expected to provide financial support for their parents in their old age. In agricultural communities, for example, sons are seen as essential for farm labor and to inherit the family property.

3. Dowry System: In some societies, the birth of a daughter is considered a financial burden due to the prevalent dowry system. Families may have to pay a significant amount of money or provide expensive gifts to the groom's family during marriage. This reinforces the preference for sons as they are considered less expensive to raise.

Implications of the Preference:
The preference for sons and the devaluation of daughters have several negative implications for society:

1. Gender Inequality: The preference for sons perpetuates gender inequality by assigning different roles and expectations based on gender. It limits opportunities for girls and reinforces stereotypes that hinder their development and potential.

2. Female Infanticide and Feticide: In extreme cases, the preference for sons leads to female infanticide or feticide, where female infants are killed or aborted simply because of their gender. This practice is illegal and unethical but continues to occur in some societies.

3. Skewed Sex Ratio: The strong preference for sons can result in a skewed sex ratio, with a higher number of males compared to females in the population. This imbalance can have long-term social and demographic consequences.

Conclusion:
Santosh's society, where the birth of a son was considered a blessing, reflects a preference for male children over female children. This preference is rooted in patriarchal values, economic reasons, and the dowry system. However, it leads to gender inequality, female infanticide/feticide, and a skewed sex ratio. Raising awareness about gender equality and empowering girls is crucial to challenging and changing such societal preferences.

In the society where the birth of a son was considered a blessing..