Which of the following combinations represents the two basic theoretical principles used to understand the caste system? |
Difference and separation; Wholism and hierarchy. Purity and pollution; Dominance and subordination. Endogamy and occupational specialisation; Hierarchy and ritual status. Social mobility and Sanskritisation; Difference and integration. |
Difference and separation; Wholism and hierarchy. |
The correct answer is Option 1: Difference and separation; Wholism and hierarchy. The caste system is theoretically understood through two fundamental principles. The first is difference and separation, according to which each caste remains distinct from every other caste through rules governing marriage, food sharing, social interaction and occupation. The second is wholism and hierarchy, which explains that all castes together form a single social system arranged in a hierarchical order from highest to lowest. |