Key Points

Social inequality is about systematic disadvantages faced by entire social groups, not about the natural or innate differences between individuals. It is structured, patterned, and persists over time.

Social resources are categorized into three forms of capital identified by Pierre Bourdieu. These are economic capital (wealth, income), cultural capital (education, status), and social capital (networks, contacts).

Social stratification is a system of ranking people in a hierarchy. It is a characteristic of society, not individuals; it persists over generations; and it is supported by an ideology or set of beliefs.

Prejudice is a preconceived attitude towards a group, often based on stereotypes (fixed, inflexible characterizations). Discrimination is the actual behavior or practice of unequal treatment.

Social exclusion is the process through which individuals or groups are systematically cut off from full involvement in the wider society. This denies them access to resources and opportunities available to the majority.

Untouchability is a vicious aspect of the caste system prescribing social sanctions based on ideas of purity and pollution. Its key dimensions are exclusion, humiliation-subordination, and economic exploitation.

The term 'Dalit', meaning 'downtrodden', was adopted by ex-untouchable communities to assert their identity. It represents a political consciousness and a struggle for rights and dignity.

The Indian state has implemented policies like reservations in education, government jobs, and legislatures. Key laws include the Constitution's Article 17, which abolishes untouchability, and the Prevention of Atrocities Act (1989).

OBCs are groups identified as 'socially and educationally backward classes', distinct from Dalits and Adivasis. The implementation of the Mandal Commission report in 1990 was a pivotal moment for OBC politics.

Adivasis, meaning 'original inhabitants', have historically faced exploitation, including loss of forests, land alienation, and displacement due to colonial policies and post-independence 'development' projects like dams and mines.

Inequalities between men and women are primarily social, not biological. The existence of diverse social structures, such as matrilineal societies, demonstrates that gender roles are not natural or fixed.

The women's question emerged in the 19th century through social reformers. Key figures include Raja Rammohun Roy (anti-Sati campaign), Jyotiba Phule (against caste and gender oppression), and M.G. Ranade (widow remarriage).

Early feminist thought was expressed by women like Tarabai Shinde in 'Stree Purush Tulana' (1882) and Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain in 'Sultana's Dream' (1905), which challenged patriarchal norms.

In 1931, the Karachi Session of the Indian National Congress passed a resolution on Fundamental Rights. This resolution committed to women's equality, including the right to vote and hold public office.

The term 'disabled' highlights that disability is a social issue, not just a physical one. Society 'disables' individuals by creating barriers and not catering to their needs.

There is a strong connection between disability and poverty. Poverty can cause disability through malnutrition and lack of healthcare, while disability can worsen poverty by limiting economic opportunities and increasing expenses.