Question

The most common features of the caste system are:
A. It is an ascribed identity.
B. It is an endogamous group.
C. It is linked to particular occupational groups.
D. It is based on abilities and can change over time.
Choose the correct statements from the options given below:

• A. A, B and C only
• B. B, C and D only
• C. A, C and D only
• D. A, B and D only

Hint:

Caste is by birth, marries within the group and is tied to occupation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Caste is a social group a person is born into. Its main features are birth based membership, marriage inside the group and a link with traditional occupations.

Step 2: Check statement A:
Caste is given by birth. A person cannot choose or earn it. So it is an ascribed identity, and A is TRUE.

Step 3: Check statement B:
Members of a caste marry within the group. This rule is called endogamy. So B is TRUE.

Step 4: Check statement C:
Castes are traditionally tied to particular occupations, and the jati system had hereditary occupations. So C is TRUE.

Step 5: Check statement D:
Being based on ability and changing with time describes an achieved status in an open class system. Caste does not work like that. So D is FALSE.

Step 6: Match with the options:
The true statements are A, B and C. Option 1 says A, B and C only. Option 2 includes D, option 3 includes D and leaves out B, and option 4 includes D. So only option 1 is correct.

Step 7: Final Answer:
Statements A, B and C are true and D is false. This is option 1. \[ \boxed{\text{Option 1}} \]