Class 12 Sociology - KERALA
Social Institutions Continuity and Change
The chapter 'Social Institutions: Continuity and Change' in Class 12 Sociology explores how fundamental pillars of society such as family, marriage, kinship, caste, and religion have transformed over time while retaining certain traditional elements. It examines the impact of colonialism, modernity, industrialization, and globalization on Indian social structures. For Kerala SCERT board exams, this chapter is crucial as it bridges traditional sociological theories with contemporary realities of Indian society, often featuring in analytical and descriptive questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Social Institution
An organized system of social relationships and structures that fulfills certain basic societal needs, such as family, religion, and education.
Caste System
A traditional system of social stratification based on birth, purity, and pollution, which has undergone significant changes due to modern education, legal reforms, and democratic politics.
Sanskritisation
A process coined by M.N. Srinivas whereby lower castes attempt to raise their social status by adopting the rituals, beliefs, and lifestyle of higher castes.
Secularism
In the Indian context, it refers to 'Sarva Dharma Sambhava' (equal respect for all religions) and the separation of state from religious institutions.
Kinship
Ties of blood (consonquinity) or marriage (affinity) that bind people together in groups, playing a vital role in traditional social organization.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
This chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks in the Kerala SCERT Class 12 Sociology examination. Common question types include short answers on key terms like Sanskritisation and secularism, short essays on the changing nature of the caste system, and analytical questions regarding the impact of globalization on the family structure in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Sanskritisation and Modernisation?
Sanskritisation is a traditional process of upward mobility where lower castes imitate upper-caste lifestyles, whereas Modernisation involves adopting scientific outlooks, technology, and universal values irrespective of caste.
How has the joint family system changed in modern India?
While the ideal of the joint family remains strong, nuclear families have become more common due to urbanization, migration for jobs, and changes in economic opportunities.
Is caste completely disappearing in modern India?
No, while traditional ritual hierarchies have weakened in public spaces, caste continues to play a major role in politics, marriage alliances, and resource distribution.
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