essay: modernisation & westernisation are not identical concepts . 250 words only
Answers
Explanation:
Concept of ‘Westernisation’ refers to ‘the changes in technology, institutions, ideology and values of a non-western society as a result of cultural contact with the western society for a long period’. Let us take the example of Indian society: technological changes, establishment of educational institutions, rise of nationalism and new political culture, etc., may all be described as the bye-products of westernisation or of the British rule of two hundred years in India. Thus, by westernisation, Srinivas primarily meant the British impact.
Emphasis on technology and rationalism.
(2) This process (of westernisation) is not retarded by the process of sanskritisation, but to some extent it is accelerated by it.
Srinivas had earlier maintained that sanskritisation is a prelude to westernisation. However, later on, he changed his view and maintained that it is not necessary for sanskritisation occurring prior to westernisation. But the two processes are linked with each other. It may not be possible to understand one without the other. Harold Gould has also said that for Brahmins and other higher castes, sanskritising is an attempt to maintain distance between them and the lower castes who are sanskritising. Thus, Brahmins are, in a sense, running away from the lower groups who are trying to catch up with them.