A rigid hierarchical social structure that determines social status, occupation, and social mobility based on hereditary groups.

Caste System

A caste system is a form of social stratification characterized by hereditary transmission of lifestyle, social status, occupation, and social relationships. While caste systems have existed in various forms across different cultures, the most well-known and enduring example is the Hindu caste system of India.

Core Characteristics

Hereditary Nature

Status determined at birth
Limited or no social mobility
Endogamy (marriage within caste)
Inherited occupational roles

Hierarchical Structure

Clear ranking system
Different levels of social privilege
Distinct rights and restrictions
Ritual purity concepts

Historical Development

Caste systems typically emerged from:

Religious beliefs and practices
Economic specialization
Political power structures
Cultural traditions

Social Impact

The caste system profoundly affects:

Individual Level

Educational opportunities
Social mobility
Marriage choices
Economic prospects
Living conditions

Societal Level

Social cohesion
Economic development
Political representation
Cultural practices

Modern Challenges

Contemporary issues include:

Legal prohibition vs. social reality
Discrimination persistence
Affirmative action debates
Social justice movements

Global Perspectives

While the Indian caste system is most prominent, similar systems exist or existed in:

Medieval European estates
Japanese feudal system
Traditional African societies
Colonial Latin America

Reform Movements

Various efforts to address caste inequality include:

Legislative measures
Social reform movements
Educational initiatives
Economic empowerment programs

The persistence of caste systems, despite modernization and legal prohibitions, demonstrates the deep-rooted nature of such social hierarchies and the challenges in achieving true social equality.