Social Inequality: Patterns and Perspectives

Patterns of unequal access to social resources are commonly called social inequality. Social inequality primarily targets groups rather than individuals. While these phenomena aren’t solely economic in nature, there’s often a connection between social and economic disparities. 

Furthermore, such inequalities are not random; they exhibit systematic and structured patterns. This understanding of “social” in the context of inequality and exclusion is pivotal.

This article delves deeper into the challenges and triumphs of four marginalised groups in India: Dalits, Adivasis, women, and the differently abled.

Societal Inequality: Roots and Resource Disparities

• Societies universally exhibit disparities in the distribution of valued resources like money, education, and power. 
• Forms of Capital: These resources can be categorised into three main forms of capital:
  • Economic Capital: Represented by material assets and income.
  • Cultural Capital: Denoted by educational achievements and societal status.
  • Social Capital: Constituted by interpersonal networks and social connections.
• Roots of Disparities: Hence, social inequality arises from unequal access to societal resources. 
• • While some inequality may result from individual differences, such as talent or effort, most are shaped by societal structures rather than inherent disparities between individuals. 

Forms of Inequality: Prejudices, Stereotypes, and Discrimination

• Prejudices: Prejudices are pre-conceived opinions about others, often arising from one’s community and upbringing. 
  • These opinions, or ‘pre-judgements’, are formed without solid evidence and might be based on second-hand information. 
  • Prejudices can be both negative and positive. 
  • Example: Someone might assume the superiority of their own caste without any factual basis.
• Stereotypes: Prejudices often stem from stereotypes, which are rigid and generalised views about a group. 
  • Stereotypes can be particularly misleading in diverse countries like India, where colonial history has left behind certain characterizations. 
  • Example: Labelling entire communities as ‘lazy’ or ‘martial’ oversimplifies and overlooks individual variations.
• Discrimination: While prejudice pertains to attitudes, discrimination involves actual behaviours against a group or individual. 
  • This can manifest in various ways, such as job denial due to gender or religion. 
  • Proving discrimination can be challenging, as it might be concealed behind seemingly valid reasons. 
  • Example: A person might be denied a job due to their caste but be informed that the decision was based on merit.

Social Exclusion: Struggles, Impact, and Reform in India

• Meaning of Social Exclusion: Social exclusion pertains to the systematic sidelining of individuals or groups from mainstream social involvement and resources. 
• Dimensions of Social Exclusion: It isn’t merely about basic necessities like food and shelter but extends to broader access to education, health, and legal services. 
  • Importantly, this exclusion is structured and inherent in societal frameworks.
• Involuntary Nature: Exclusion is involuntary, meaning those excluded don’t willingly opt-out. 
  • While the affluent might choose not to use certain public spaces, the underprivileged are often denied access to them. 
  • Consistent discriminatory treatment may lead to the excluded groups creating their own alternatives, like the Dalits building their own temples. 
  • However, the initial exclusion remains involuntary and systematic.
• India’s Historical Context: India’s history is rife with deep-seated social discrimination and exclusion, especially concerning caste, gender, and religion. 
  • Various movements have protested against these injustices. 
  • However, prejudices persist, highlighting the insufficiency of legislative measures alone. 
  • For lasting change, continuous social campaigns promoting awareness and sensitivity are essential.
• Colonial Impact and Social Reform: Colonialism intensified experiences of discrimination and exclusion, even for India’s privileged. 
  • This, combined with exposure to democratic ideals, led many Indians to champion social reforms.