Which of the following is not the characteristic of Caste?

Unrestricted Choice of Occupation

The characteristic that is not associated with Caste is Unrestricted Choice of Occupation. Caste systems typically impose strict occupational restrictions, limiting individuals to follow the traditional occupations associated with their caste group. This restriction on occupational mobility is a defining feature of caste systems.

The other options are all characteristics of caste systems:

• Social and Religious hierarchy: Caste systems are characterized by a rigid social hierarchy, with each caste group occupying a specific rank in society. This hierarchy is often reinforced by religious beliefs that ascribe different levels of purity and status to different castes.

• Segmental Division of Society: Caste systems divide society into distinct and often endogamous groups, meaning that marriages typically occur within the same caste. This segmentation reinforces the boundaries and hierarchies of the caste system.

• Restrictions on feeding and Social Intercourse: Caste systems often impose restrictions on social interactions between members of different castes. These restrictions can range from limitations on physical contact to prohibitions on sharing meals or using common water sources. These restrictions serve to maintain the social and religious boundaries of the caste system.