Caste Research Articles

Caste Transformation, Intracultural Communication, and Social Structure Dynamics in Kei Society, Southeast Maluku-Indonesia

This study investigates the system of social stratification and intracultural communication in the Kei people of Southeast Maluku, Indonesia, which is based on centuries-old caste traditions. Kei society is divided into three main classes: mel-mel (nobles), ren-ren (middle class), and iri-ri (lower class), each of which has roles and rights governed by local customary law, Larwul Ngabal. This caste system has created a recognized social balance despite certain dominance and hegemony. This research uses an ethnographic approach with a focus on direct observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis to explore how stereotypes and social stratification are maintained through intracultural communication. The findings show that Kei people use language and cultural symbols to reinforce their caste position, while modernization and electoral politics open space for changes in social dynamics. The results of this study provide insights into how local communities adapt to modernization and democratization while maintaining traditional cultural structures. The implications of this study underscore the importance of understanding the dynamics of intracultural communication in the context of social stratification to maintain social order and promote inclusiveness in the social development of Kei society.

Automated optimization of gating system through numerical simulation

Casting is a process for the production of complex shapes. Defects are unavoidable in any casting process. An efficient method of eliminating such defects can improve the process capability of the casting system. Computer simulation can save time, resources, and money in foundry trials, but it necessitates more human effort in terms of preparing the inputs and appropriately interpreting the results. In this work, a new method for evaluating and optimizing gating system design utilizing a simulation tool is proposed. It is possible to automatically modify the gating design with the help of CAD and casting simulation software from a given initial design and boundary conditions, and to check whether the design is effective to eliminate defects. Further this takes less human effort, making it more useful for industrial applications. The suggested methodology is demonstrated by autonomously optimizing the gating system for two industrial components and validated by producing actual castings made in sand molds.

Voices of Resistance: Caste and Gender in Meena Kandasamy's Poetry

Dalit women's poetry is a powerful form of political expression that challenges the caste system and patriarchal structures in India. It gives voice to the experiences of marginalized women, exposing social injustices and demanding social change. Their poetry raises awareness about social issues, fosters community building among Dalit women, and inspires political activism. It disrupts the status quo and demands social change. Touch, the debut poetry collection of Meena Kandasamy, marks a significant entry into contemporary Indian poetry. Published in 2006, this collection offers a poignant exploration of caste, gender, and identity. Kandasamy uses her sharp poetic voice to address the socio-political issues that plague Indian society, particularly focusing on the experiences of Dalits and women. This paper delves into the themes, stylistic elements, and critical reception ofTouch, highlighting its impact on modern poetry and social discourse.

Indian diaspora, caste and public diplomacy: a study of digital diaspora

ABSTRACT This article critically engages with the conceptual framework of diplomacy and the question of caste. Although Nehruvian foreign policy enunciated the spirit of anti-colonialism, anti-racial discrimination, and anti-imperialism, it failed to uphold anti-caste diplomacy in post-colonial International Relations. The caste system eclipsed Indian foreign policy by treating Dalits as ‘docile bodies’ (Foucault 1979). An increasing role of Indian diaspora in foreign policy discourse has established a new typology of diplomacy, ‘people-to-people’ relations in India’s transnational communication. Long ago, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar had warned that although caste is a local problem, if the caste Hindus were to migrate to other regions on the earth, it would become a global problem. In such context, this article examines the role of digital diaspora networks in legislating anti-caste laws and policies in UK, EU, USA, and Canada. Eventually, it provides a perspective on the lack of diplomatic protection for Dalits in the international relations.

Prevalence and associated factors of impaired kidney functions among children and adolescents in India: insights from the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS) 2016-18

BackgroundChronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health problem. The burden of CKD in children and adolescents in India is not well described. We used data from the recent Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS) to estimate the prevalence of impaired kidney function (IKF) and its determinants in children and adolescents between the ages of 5 and 19.MethodsCNNS 2016–18 adopted a multi-stage sampling design using probability proportional to size sampling procedure after geographical stratification of urban and rural areas. Serum creatinine was tested once in 24,690 children and adolescents aged 5–19 years. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was derived using the revised Schwartz equation. The eGFR value below 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 is defined as IKF. Bivariate analysis was done to depict the weighted prevalence, and multivariable logistic regression examined the predictors of IKF.ResultsThe mean eGFR in the study population was 113.3 + 41.4 mL/min/1.73 m2. The overall prevalence of IKF was 4.9%. The prevalence in the 5–9, 10–14, and 15–19 year age groups was 5.6%, 3.4% and 5.2%, respectively. Regression analysis showed age, rural residence, non-reserved social caste, less educated mothers, Islam religion, children with severe stunting or being overweight/obese, and residence in Southern India to be predictors of IKF.ConclusionsThe prevalence of IKF among children and adolescents in India is high compared to available global estimates. In the absence of repeated eGFR-based estimates, these nationally representative estimates are intriguing and call for further assessment of socio-demographic disparities, genetics, and risk behaviours to have better clinical insights and public health preparedness.

Realities on Participation of Scheduled Caste in India: The Benefits of Social Inclusion in Higher Education through Social Work Interventions

Abstract Education plays a crucial role in empowering individuals and building a society that is driven by knowledge. In India, higher education focuses on instilling values, attitudes and skills in students for their personal growth and the betterment of society. The core principles of higher education in India revolve around social justice, equality, democratic participation and equity. However, despite the constitutional promise of equality and social justice, the Indian social structure still adheres to the Caste system. This leads to social exclusion and creates a significant gap in access to quality education for marginalised groups, particularly the Scheduled Castes (SCs). This article examines the participation trends of SC students in higher education, highlighting the challenges within the education system and policies. It emphasises the need for inclusive education to empower SC students and uphold the principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Moreover underscores the value of social work intervention in encouraging the active involvement of SCs in higher education.

Unveiling the Legacy of Pandit Karuppan: A Critical Analysis of Jathikkummi and Balakalesam in Kerala’s Social Reform Movement

The paper entitled Unveiling the Legacy of Pandit Karuppan: A Critical Analysis of Jathikkummi and Balakalesam in Kerala’s Social Reform Movement delves into the profound impact of two seminal works, Jathikummi and Balakalesam, in catalyzing a transformative shift within the social fabric of Kerala. Emerging as responses to the entrenched caste system prevalent in Kerala society, these works served as significant milestones in the broader context of social reform movements in the region. Jathikummi and Balakalesam, attributed to Pandit Karuppan, epitomize the spirit of resistance against caste-based oppression, advocating for the rights and dignity of marginalized communities. Through a comprehensive examination of historical records, literary analyses, and socio-political contexts, this paper elucidates the multifaceted dimensions of these revolutionary texts. It explores the socio-cultural landscape of Kerala during the time of their inception, highlighting the pervasive influence of caste hierarchy on various aspects of life. Furthermore, it investigates the strategies employed Pandit Karuppan to challenge existing norms and ignite conversations around social equality and justice. Central to the discussion are the themes of education, empowerment, and collective mobilization elucidated in Jathikummi and Balakalesam. These works not only served as instruments of consciousness-raising but also as blueprints for practical activism aimed at dismantling caste-based discrimination and oppression. By critically engaging with these works, we gain valuable insights into the complexities of caste dynamics and the ongoing struggle for inclusive and egalitarian societies.

A counter-gravity casting system for in situ high-speed synchrotron x-ray imaging characterization.

Counter-gravity casting (CGC) aims to eliminate turbulent melt flow and defect formation during filling and subsequent solidification by pushing high-temperature melt into the mold cavity against gravity with regulated pressure. However, limited by the opaqueness of molten metals and the complexity of the CGC apparatus, it is extremely difficult to directly quantify the high-velocity mold filling and pressurized solidification in real-time. Here, we report the design and characterization of a CGC system capable of in situ monitoring of mold filling and subsequent solidification processes in the synchrotron beamlines by deploying a high-energy, high-speed synchrotron x-ray imaging technique. The high-velocity melt flow and dendrite growth during pressurized solidification have been quantified for systematical process parameter analysis by investigating time-resolved x-ray images of an exemplary Al-Cu alloy. The high-speed imaging results demonstrate that the in situ CGC system provides a useful way to better understand the fundamentals of mold filling, pressurized solidification, and experimental inputs for high-fidelity modeling in scientific and industrial applications.

Hakikat Masyarakat dalam Perspektif Filsafat Pendidikan Islam

The Philosophy of Islamic Education serves as the cornerstone of knowledge. Society is often depicted as a collection of individuals who share common characteristics and goals. In Islam, every member of society enjoys equal rights and responsibilities. Islam rejects caste systems and the allocation of special privileges to any individual or group; the honor of a person in Islamic society is determined solely by their devotion to Allah. Typically, an Islamic society is characterized by three main features: orientation towards Allah, prioritization of piety, and mutual respect among its members. The essential elements for building an Islamic society include Brotherhood, Compassion, Equality, Freedom, and Social Justice. The connection between the philosophy of Islamic education and society is very close, forming an inseparable symbiosis. Consequently, Islamic society plays a crucial role and bears a significant responsibility in shaping complete Muslims and fostering a civil and ideal Islamic community, in alignment with the teachings of the Qur'an and the Sunnah.

Magahiya Doms and untouchability

Magahiya Doms have historically suffered from the double stigma of criminality and untouchability. They were notified as a Criminal Tribe in 1913 but also came to be recognised as useful for the colonial state due to their role as sweepers and scavengers. The missionaries and colonial officials attempted to order and fix the identities of communities such as these. In this paper, I discuss the concept of touch and untouchability in relation to the caste system in India. I juxtapose the idea of the body proposed by Ambedkar in Annihilation of Caste against the caste body and colonised body. Against the static and closed identity which the state attempted to bestow on the Doms, I seek to understand the body itself as processual, moving and relational. Magahiya Doms resisted colonial moves to stabilise social identities every step of the way. I also discuss the role of the colonial apparatus as a mediator that sought to impose a new order of hygiene. The colonial mechanisms of governance cut off the older ties and relational tendencies and placed themselves and their logistics as chains through which frozen identities could communicate. In this way, they partitioned off bodies and settled themselves as chains connecting the partitioned bodies. After being de-notified as a Criminal Tribe, the Magahiya Doms were categorised as a Scheduled Caste in 1952.

Politics of Marginalization: How Caste Affects Political Career of Dalits in Nepal

Dalit leadership thrives only on the inclusive policies and practices of political parties in a diversified society. This study explores how the caste system affects the political career of Dalits in Nepal by means of the author’s autoethnography and in-depth interviews taken with Dalit political leaders and activists. The study reveals that the caste system plays a key role in accessing and controlling the power politics of Dalit leaders and activists. The influence of caste prevails among political parties, from grassroots to top leadership. The high-caste domination is not only prevalent in the institutional structures of conventional parties but also in the communist parties. Besides, the Dalit politicians have frequently faced untouchability from non-Dalits while conducting party activities in their parties, and private and public spaces. To overcome the caste hegemony, this paper suggests the deconstruction of the caste system that will lead to the liberation of Dalits.

GHANDIAN PHILOSOPHY OF NON-VIOLENCE IN THE ITALIAN CONSTITUTION

This article explores the connection between Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and the fundamental principles of the 1948 Italian Constitution, analysing how Gandhian values have influenced the architecture of rights and freedoms enshrined in the Italian Constitutional Charter. The article begins with a reflection on work as an instrument of personal emancipation and collective growth, a concept that Gandhi considered central to the development of a just and harmonious society. It examines how Article 1 of the Italian Constitution, which proclaims Italy as ‘a democratic republic, founded on labour’, embodies these principles, highlighting the role of work not only as a means of subsistence, but as the foundation of the welfare and progress of the entire nation.Continuing, the article analyses the principle of formal and substantive equality enshrined in Article 3 of the Italian Constitution, relating it to Gandhi’s struggle against the caste system in India. The Italian Constitution embraces the concept of equality not only before the law, but also in the removal of economic and social obstacles that prevent the effective enjoyment of rights by all citizens.Special attention is devoted to Article 11 of the Constitution, which repudiates war as an instrument of offence against the freedom of other peoples and promotes peace and international cooperation. This principle is closely linked to the Gandhian philosophy of non-violence, which rejects the use of force not only in the personal sphere, but also in international relations, proposing instead dialogue and diplomacy as tools for conflict resolution.The article also explores the principle of the presumption of innocence, enshrined in Article 27 of the Italian Constitution, in contrast to the repressive practices of authoritarian regimes, both colonial and fascist, which assumed the guilt of anyone who opposed the established power. It is emphasised that the Italian Constitution represents an important step towards a fairer justice that respects human dignity.Finally, the role of science and freedom of teaching is examined, with a focus on Article 33 of the Constitution, which guarantees scientific freedom as a pillar of human progress. The article highlights the Gandhian vision of a science at the service of humanity, criticising the use of technology without ethical and human considerations, and arguing for the importance of science education that promotes open debate and respect for divergent opinions.Ultimately, the Italian Constitution, through its fundamental principles, not only reflects the Gandhian vision of a just and peaceful society, but also embodies a relentless commitment to the pursuit of truth. This commitment, like truth itself, is an ongoing journey that requires the active and conscious participation of every citizen to build a society in which justice, equality and human dignity are constantly pursued and realised.

한국의 기독교 선교가 독립운동에 미친 영향

The purpose of this study was to look at the devaluation of Christianity and its alienation from the people and ask, “What is the meaning of Christianity being introduced into Korean society, and what impact has it had?”. In the process of accepting Christianity, the analysis focused on political and social situations, economic and religious situations as acceptance factors. Politically and socially, the pressure for reform and opening by Western powers, the signing of treaties, and the introduction of new systems were analyzed. In terms of the economic situation, the economic impoverishment suffered by the people of countries that failed to adapt to world historical changes and quickly accept the culture of modernization explained. In addition, referring to the suppression of Catholicism in the process of introducing Catholicism and the failure of the Catholic introduction process in the religious situation, various methods were tried and the situations in which the gospel was gradually spread were explained. It was pointed out that Christianity had a great influence on the modernization of Korea during the Enlightenment period, including the spirit of patriotism and love for the people, prohibition of discrimination between people and books, and the abolition of the caste system. In addition, the fundamental reason for the acceptance of Christianity was that it was recognized as a powerful religion that made wealth possible, and thus the gospel expanded from the powerless ruled class to the ruling class. Meanwhile, Christianity had a great influence on the March 1st Independence Movement, and the changes in the consciousness of the Joseon people due to Christian missions were examined through the establishment of independence association branches, differences in active participation, and a confession written by a nobleman. In addition, we looked into the teachings of Christianity, focusing on the subject of the independence movement, the purpose of the movement, and the methods of action in the independence movement as shown in the Declaration of Independence, and the relationship between Christianity and the role of the March 1st Movement and Christian schools. Lastly, it concludes that in the face of the decline of Christianity, which had a great influence during the turbulent times of Korean history, the Korean people need to know and learn about history.

Private discrimination, marriage markets, and caste

AbstractAnti‐discrimination laws draw a distinction between two kinds of discrimination by non‐state actors. Intimate choices are protected even if they are morally wrong. For example, even if it is morally wrong to discriminate on the basis of race in deciding whom to date, marry or befriend, anti‐discrimination laws permit these acts. By contrast, commercial decisions are commonly regulated. I argue that the reasons for regulating commercial decisions also extend to an intermediate case, commercial facilitators of marriage choices. In the context of the caste system, I argue that commercial facilitators should be banned from allowing customers to filter by caste. The argument is based on two considerations. First, this could mitigate the harmful effects of such discriminatory marriages choices in the (re)production of the oppressive caste system. Second, even if the ban fails in changing behaviour, it serves as an expressive goal of communicating the state's opposition to the caste system.

A Study of Caste and Tribal System in Kumaon and Garhwal Reasons in Uttarakhand

The Jaunsari, Tharu, Raji, Buksa, and Bhotiya tribes are the five primary groups that make up Uttarakhand's tribe population. The Jaunsari tribe is the largest tribal group in the state in terms of numbers. The ethnic groups living in the state of Uttarakhand are represented by the tribes. In all of Uttarakhand's districts, the proportion of tribal people is roughly moderate. The majority of tribal people in the state of Uttarakhand live in rural areas. According to available data, approximately 94.50% of all tribal members live in rural areas, with the remaining portion residing in urban areas. It is stated that about five tribes call Uttarakhand officially home. The Indian Constitution has designated a schedule for these tribes from Uttarakhand. According to historical accounts, the earliest people to settle in this part of North India were the tribes of Uttarakhand. Their primary populations used to be restricted to isolated, steep, and wooded regions. The ancient customs of the tribes in Uttarakhand have not changed. They stand for the unique way of life and characteristics of a prehistoric society. Their ethnicity is determined by their sociocultural practices and traditional customs. Up to five tribes that are officially located in Uttarakhand are listed as scheduled in the Indian Constitution, which was drafted more than 40 years ago, in 1967.

“The Humble Mahar Women Fall at Your Feet, Master.” Portrayal of the Psyche and Suffering of Mahar Women in Baby Kamble’s The Prisons We Broke

This article delves into the nature of suffering as experienced by Mahar women struggling with the implemented difficulties by the prevailing patriarchal ideology rooted in Brahminism. Baby Kamble dislikes the humanitarian aversion to agony and disparity. She is sensitive to the predicament of Dalit women and conscious of their sufferings. She has managed to dredge into the psyche of Mahar women, prioritizing sisterhood and Dalit femininity over individual suffering. As a woman writer, Kamble concedes that her primary task is to promote women’s emancipation and eradicate untouchability. She propitiously manages to portray Mahar women and their wounded selves. Utilizing Paik’s theory of Incremental Intersecting Technologies about caste, class, gender, sexuality, and agency as the framework, the paper seeks to answer the questions: How much consideration is given to the caste system, and what intersectional aspects have been integrated into discussions about Dalit women in the last twenty years.

De Beauvoir, the Great Chain of Being and the Caste System: The psycho-politics of psychotherapy trainings

De Beauvoir, the Great Chain of Being and the Caste System: The psycho-politics of psychotherapy trainings

Population profile of haemocytes in the subcastes of the leaf‐cutter ant Atta sexdens (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) unveiled by flow cytometry

AbstractThe leaf‐cutter ant Atta sexdens is crucial in ecological balance and economic activities, due to its contribution to the aeration and accumulation of organic matter in the soil, but it may also be an agricultural pest when it defoliates plants for the fungus growth used as a food source. This leaf‐cutter ant exhibits a polymorphic worker caste system with distinct activities in the colony. These functions are performed by workers classified into subcastes, including gardeners, which are responsible for the fungus and brood care; cleaners (waste removers), which remove wastes; foragers, which collect and transport plant parts to the nest; and soldiers, which are responsible for colony defence and the support of foraging activities. In our previous work, we showed that A. sexdens has five types of circulating haemocytes in the haemolymph, which play a vital role in immune defence. Herein, we further investigated the population profile of circulating haemocytes in the haemolymph of different worker subcastes of A. sexdens using flow cytometry. Each subcaste exhibited a single population of haemocytes in the haemolymph. However, a detailed 3D dispersion analysis uncovered five distinct haemocyte subpopulations, two of which presented higher quantities. The soldier displayed haemocytes with high fluorescence intensity, compared with the gardener, waste remover, and forager, along with increased complexity, compared with the gardener subcaste. These results suggest that these cells may be granulocytes and plasmatocytes, which are known for their role in insect immune defence.

The Great Spirit of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar

Abstract Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, renowned as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a tireless advocate for social justice, has left an enduring impact on India’s socio-political landscape. This research essay delves into the multifaceted spirit of Ambedkar, emphasizing his profound engagement with Buddhism and the emergence of Neo-Buddhism as a potent catalyst for social transformation. His conversion to Buddhism symbolized a resolute renunciation of the entrenched caste hierarchy, heralding an embrace of the Buddha’s teachings that exalted the fundamental interconnectedness of all sentient beings. This underlines his steadfast belief in Buddhism as an antidote to the deeply ingrained caste system, marking his unwavering dedication to bestow a renewed spiritual identity upon the marginalized. Ambedkar’s profound reinterpretation of Buddhist philosophy, with a focus on its social dimensions and ethical code, exemplifies his spirit of adapting Buddhism to the contemporary struggles of the oppressed.

Advancements in the Understanding of Single‐Bubble Dynamics: Integrated Experimental and Simulation Studies

Because of wake instability, bubbles always ascend along an unstable path, which is not considered when simulating their movement in steel refining and continuous casting systems. Utilizing the 3D shadow image method, a quantitative characterization of the bubble trajectories is conducted to establish a bubble path oscillation model considering the zigzag lateral movement of bubbles due to asymmetric wake shedding. This model is incorporated into a rectilinear bubble motion model within the Lagrangian framework and then used to simulate the free ascent of single bubbles within the 2.15–2.55 mm range. The predicted bubble ascent velocities and trajectories agree well with the experimental. The spatial position, velocity, acceleration, forces, volume swept by bubbles, and bubble residence time are discussed. The results shown that the dominant force in the horizontal direction is the lateral force, followed by the drag and virtual mass force. Compared to the rectilinear path model, the volume swept by bubbles with initial diameters of 2.15, 2.25, 2.34, 2.45, and 2.55 mm in this model increases by 30.8%, 32.0%, 34.0%, 31.5%, and 29.6%, respectively. These findings help accurately predict the path of bubbles and also may contribute to a better understanding of bubble dynamics in bubble metallurgy and clean steel production.