The caste system is a unique hierarchy in which people are born into a certain caste and remain in it for their entire lives. This system is particularly prevalent in India, where one’s life is pre-destined based on their caste. Those born into a scheduled caste in a rural area may be considered untouchable and are restricted to interactions with their own caste. Marrying someone from a higher caste is forbidden, and people die belonging to the same caste they were born into.
What is a Class System?
A class system is a social stratification where individuals are divided into different classes based on factors such as economy and profession. Most societies have three main classes: upper, middle, and lower. The class system exists in many parts of India, with those who have wealth and property asserting their dominance over the poor and deprived. Unlike the rigid caste system, individuals can potentially move up the class hierarchy by improving their earnings, gaining education, or amassing wealth.
Key Takeaways
- The caste system is a rigid hierarchy based on birth, while the class system is based on factors such as wealth and profession.
- There is no social mobility in the caste system, whereas individuals can potentially move up in the class system through hard work and wealth accumulation.
- While the caste system remains firmly rooted in India, it is slowly getting diluted, and a more humane class system is taking its place, offering more opportunities for people to improve their social status.
