Question

The characteristics of the caste system:-
(A) Caste is an ascribed status.
(B) Caste groups are 'endogamous'.
(C) Caste is an achieved status.
(D) Castes involve segmental organization.
(E) Caste groups are based on choice of individuals
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (D), (B) and (C) only
• C. (A), (B) and (E) only
• D. (B), (C) and (E) only

Hint:

Remember the key features of caste: determined by birth (ascribed), marriage within the group (endogamy), hierarchical ranking, and restrictions on social interaction (like food sharing).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the core features of the traditional caste system in India, as described in sociology by thinkers like G.S. Ghurye.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
(A) Caste is an ascribed status: This is correct. A person's caste is determined by birth and is not something they can change.
(B) Caste groups are 'endogamous': This is correct. Endogamy is a strict rule where marriage is permitted only within one's own caste group.
(C) Caste is an achieved status: This is incorrect. An achieved status is one that is earned or chosen (like a profession). Caste is the opposite; it is ascribed.
(D) Castes involve segmental organization: This is correct. The caste system divides society into a number of distinct, hereditary segments or groups (the castes), each with its own customs, rules, and position in the hierarchy.
(E) Caste groups are based on choice of individuals: This is incorrect. Membership in a caste group is determined by birth, not by individual choice.
Therefore, the correct characteristics are (A), (B), and (D). Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct combination of features of the caste system is (A) Ascribed status, (B) Endogamy, and (D) Segmental organization.