Which of the following are the features of Caste system:1. It is base...
- Caste inequalities Unlike gender and religion, caste division is special to India. All societies have some kind of social inequality and some form of division of labour. In most societies, occupations are passed on from one generation to another. Caste system is an extreme form of this.
- What makes it different from other societies is that in this system, hereditary occupational division was sanctioned by rituals.
- Members of the same caste group were supposed to form a social community that practiced the same or similar occupation, married within the caste group and did not eat with members from other caste groups. Caste system was based on exclusion of and discrimination against the ‘outcaste’ groups.
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Which of the following are the features of Caste system:1. It is base...
Features of Caste System
The caste system is a complex social structure that has been prevalent in India for centuries. It is characterized by several features that define its functioning and organization. The correct answer for the given question is option B, which includes features 1 and 3. Let's discuss each feature in detail:
1. Exclusion and discrimination against the 'outcaste' groups:
- The caste system is a hierarchical social order, where individuals are born into a specific caste and remain in that caste for their entire lives.
- The lowest caste in the system is known as the 'outcaste' or 'untouchable' group, also called Dalits. They have historically faced severe discrimination, social exclusion, and were considered impure.
- They were often subjected to menial tasks such as cleaning, disposal of dead bodies, and handling of animal carcasses, which were considered ritually impure.
2. Absence of hereditary occupational divisions sanctioned by rituals:
- This statement is incorrect. The caste system is known for its hereditary occupational divisions, where specific occupations are assigned to each caste.
- Traditionally, the caste system was divided into four major varnas or occupational groups: Brahmins (priests and teachers), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and servants).
- Each varna had its own set of rituals and duties, and individuals were expected to follow the occupation assigned to their caste.
3. Formation of social communities based on occupation:
- Members of the same caste group are supposed to form a social community that practices the same or similar occupation.
- This feature is correct and one of the defining characteristics of the caste system. Each caste has its own distinct identity and is associated with specific occupations.
- The occupation is passed down from generation to generation, ensuring a continuity of skills and work within the caste.
In conclusion, the correct features of the caste system are:
- It is based on exclusion and discrimination against the 'outcaste' groups.
- Members of the same caste group are supposed to form a social community that practices the same or similar occupation.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B (1 and 3).
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