A sociologist argues that caste was not merely a system of social classification but also a mechanism for reproducing inequality across generations. Which of the following observations most strongly supports this argument?

Occupations and social status became hereditary and difficult to change.

The correct answer is Option 3: Occupations and social status became hereditary and difficult to change.

A system reproduces inequality across generations when advantages and disadvantages are transmitted by birth rather than individual achievement. Hereditary occupations and fixed social status ensured that privileges and disadvantages were passed from one generation to the next.

Option 1 Food-sharing practices differed across castes. — Incorrect. This indicates social separation but does not directly explain intergenerational inequality.

Option 2 Many castes had sub-castes and sub-sub-castes. — Incorrect. This shows internal organisation rather than the reproduction of inequality.

Option 4 The hierarchy of castes could vary from region to region. — Incorrect. This concerns regional variation, not the persistence of inequality across generations.