Question

Impact of westernization on indian society

Answer 1

“I have used the term “westernisation” to characterize the changes brought about in the Indian society and culture as a result of over 150 years of British rule”. Westernisation occurs at different levels: in the levels of technology, institution, ideology and values. The term ‘westernisation’ is ethically neutral. So, it does not carry the value of good or bad.

Characteristics of Westernisation

1. It is inclusive as it can accommodate various outside elements.

2. It is complex as it includes many aspects such as behaviours aspect, knowledge aspect etc.

3. It is many layered for it occurs in many levels.

4. Emphasis is given more on humanitarianism and rationalism.

5. Westernisation primarily focuses on cultural changes.

6. Westernisation results in the introduction of new institutions and brings changes in the old institutions.

M.N. Srinivas found contradicting situations in relation to westernisation. For example, the manipulation of western technology does not mean that the manipulators have accepted a rationalistic and scientific attitude. That is why, he found, the bulldozer driver of Rampura village was a black magician. He thought that this situation represents a carryover of traditional magico-religious beliefs into the new world of modern technology.

There are also instances where westernisation has given birth to forces which are mutually at cross-purposes. For example, the introduction of printing machine. Printing machine helps in the transmission of modern knowledge as well as knowledge of the traditional epics, mythology, religious literature etc. Likewise, in the political and cultural field, westernisation has given birth to nationalism and also to revivalism, communalism, casteism, linguism and regionalism.

Answer 2

Answer:

Westernisation has contributed to the re-emergence of a pan-Indian culture on new grounds. Some areas of western impact include education, law, science, technology, new forms of politicisation, urbanisation, industrialisation, the press, means of transport and communication.