Question

Summarise the social anthropological definition of caste.

Answer 1

The social anthropological definition of caste emphasizes – Caste is based on segmental division, it means that the society is divided into various segments or compartments, which are closed and mutually exclusive.

Explanation:

• Each caste is strictly unequal to all other castes, which means every caste is either higher or lower than the other caste in the hierarchical division of the caste system.
• The institution of caste is governed by the rule of ideas of purity and pollution, which imposes restrictions on social interaction, especially the sharing of food.
• Due to the principles of hierarchy and restricted social interaction, caste involves differential rights and duties.
• The caste is decided by birth and is hereditary and the functions of each cast are rigid with specific occupations being allocated to specific castes. Caste involves strict restrictions on marriage.
• The marriages can take place only within the caste and one may not marry a person who is not of his or her caste.