Question

Match List-I with List-II

List-I (Concept)	List-II (Example)
(A) Sanskritisation	(I) Dalit groups adopting the use of fork and spoons.
(B) Westernisation	(II) Dalit groups adopting the practice of dowry.
(C) Modernisation	(III) Public advertisements for jobs stating qualification only.
(D) Secularisation	(IV) Public holidays for festivals of all religions.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• (A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (I)
• (A) - (II), (B) - (I), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV)
• (A) - (II), (B) - (I), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)
• (A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

Hint:

In sociology-based matching questions, first define each term in your mind. Then, carefully analyze each example to see which definition it fits best. Differentiate clearly between Westernisation (adopting Western culture) and Modernisation (adopting rational, scientific, and meritocratic principles).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Phase 1: Conceptual Grasp
This query necessitates comprehension of four fundamental sociological constructs concerning social evolution in India.
Sanskritization: Lower social strata or tribal communities assimilate the customs, rituals, and lifestyles of higher castes to elevate their societal standing.
Westernization: The adoption of Western cultural elements, values, and practices, including attire, dietary habits, and language.
Modernization: A societal transformation encompassing industrialization, urbanization, rational thought processes, and the establishment of institutions founded on meritocracy and efficacy.
Secularization: The diminishing social prominence and influence of religious institutions, beliefs, and practices, often characterized by the separation of state and religious bodies.
Phase 2: Concept-Example Correlation
Let us examine each illustration and align it with the appropriate concept:
(A) Sanskritization: The tradition of dowry, historically more prevalent among upper castes, when adopted by Dalit groups, signifies imitation of a higher social echelon's custom. This is a definitive instance of Sanskritization.
Consequently, (A) aligns with (II).
(B) Westernization: The utilization of forks and spoons, a Western-originated dining custom, when adopted by Dalit groups, represents the assimilation of a Western cultural attribute.
Thus, (B) correlates with (I).
(C) Modernization: Advertising job openings solely based on qualifications signifies a transition towards a merit-based, rational system, a core component of modernization. This deviates from traditional determinants such as caste or familial connections.
Therefore, (C) corresponds to (III).
(D) Secularization: A state that designates public holidays for the festivals of all major religions exhibits neutrality and equal regard for all faiths, a hallmark of a secular state.
Hence, (D) matches (IV).
Phase 3: Conclusive Resolution
Based on the preceding correlations, the accurate pairing is (A) - (II), (B) - (I), (C) - (III), and (D) - (IV). This corresponds to selection (2).