Inter-Caste Relations and Aspirational Levels - An Attitudinal Study
Author(s)
Bhatia, H. S.
Abstract
The attitudes of the Harijans to the question of change in the traditional patterns of inter-caste relations is examined. The participation of Harijans in the process of restructuring their traditional position in the society is studied in terms of 2 important factors : (1) the extent to which they aspire for qualities, & (2) the extent to which they are willing to have intimate social relations with higher castes on the basis of equality. 3 dimensions of achieved status are included for measuring the levels of aspirations: education, wealth & political power. Harijans have been found to show low levels of aspirations. They show little inclination to break the traditional patterns of relationships with higher castes where intimate & diffused relations are involved. By restricting such relationships to their own castes & thereby maintaining their identity as distinct social groups, they are seen as protecting themselves against experiencing contradictions between constitutional equality & the social inequality built into the social structure of Indian society.
