The concept of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in India is deeply rooted in the country’s complex social structure, which has been shaped by centuries of caste-based stratification. OBCs represent a diverse group of communities that have historically faced social, educational, and economic disadvantages due to their position in the traditional caste hierarchy. The identification and … Read more
Scheduled Tribes (STs) are among the most marginalized and vulnerable communities in India. They represent a significant segment of the population, characterized by distinct cultural, social, and economic identities. The Indian Constitution recognizes these communities as Scheduled Tribes, granting them special protections and privileges to address historical injustices and socio-economic disparities. This article delves into … Read more
Thorstein Veblen, a pioneering American sociologist and economist, introduced the concepts of “leisure class” and “conspicuous consumption” in his seminal work, The Theory of the Leisure Class (1899). His analysis critiques the socio-economic structure of capitalist societies, where wealth and status are demonstrated through non-productive activities and excessive consumption. Veblen’s theories remain relevant in understanding … Read more
India, with its rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and traditions, has historically been a land of diverse social practices and beliefs. However, many of these practices were deeply entrenched in hierarchical structures, caste systems, and gender inequalities. The 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the emergence of socio-religious reform movements that sought to address these … Read more
Thorstein Veblen (1857–1929), an American economist and sociologist, is widely regarded as one of the most original thinkers in the social sciences. His work transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries, blending economics, sociology, and anthropology to critique the socio-economic structures of his time. Among his many contributions, Veblen’s “Theory of Technological Evolutionism” stands out as a foundational … Read more
Social change is a fundamental aspect of human societies, reflecting the dynamic nature of cultural, economic, and political structures. In India, a country characterized by its diverse social fabric and hierarchical caste system, the process of social change has been influenced by various sociological phenomena. One such phenomenon is “Sanskritization,” a concept introduced by the … Read more
Urban India has witnessed a significant transformation in its social and spatial landscape over the past few decades, with the rise of gated communities becoming a defining feature of this change. These enclosed residential complexes, often equipped with modern amenities and security features, have become synonymous with the aspirations and lifestyles of the burgeoning middle … Read more
The informal sector in urban India plays a crucial role in the economy, employing millions of workers across diverse occupations such as street vending, construction, domestic work, waste recycling, and gig-based jobs. Despite its economic significance, the informal sector is often characterized by precarious working conditions, lack of social security, and marginalization. Sociologically, the informal … Read more
Social change is an inevitable and continuous process that shapes societies over time. It refers to the transformation of cultural, economic, political, and social institutions and relationships. While social change can occur organically through natural processes, it can also be deliberately initiated and directed. This intentional effort to alter societal structures and norms is known … Read more
Social change is a dynamic and continuous process that restructures societies by influencing institutions, cultural norms, and power relations. In the Indian context, marked by deep-rooted traditions and hierarchical social structures, an effective analysis of social change requires an approach that acknowledges contradictions, conflicts, and their resolutions. Dialectical approaches, grounded in the principles of conflict … Read more