Caste: Oxford India Short Introductions

by Surinder S. Jodhka

The Oxford India Short Introductions are concise, stimulating, and accessible guides to different aspects of India. Combining authoritative analysis, new ideas, and diverse perspectives, they discuss subjects which are topical yet enduring, as also emerging areas of study and debate.

The highly complex, dynamic, and enduring social reality of caste in India remains an anathema for social theorists. Combining up-to-date research with accessible and systematic exposition, this short introduction provides an exciting synoptic view of all the main aspects and dimensions of caste in India today. Looking at caste as tradition, as a constitutive element in power politics, and its inherent strands of humiliation and contestation in modern times, this book covers the many themes and issues around the lived reality of caste in India. It will prove indispensable for scholars, students, and general readers interested in this all-pervasive element of Indian social life.

Genres: Sociology, Nonfiction, India

201 pages, Paperback

First published July 26, 2012

About the author

Professor of Sociology at JNU, New Delhi. He researches on caste; agrarian change and contemporary rural India; and community identities. His publications include Contested Hierarchies: Caste and Power in 21st Century India (OBS 2018 with James Manor); A Handbook of Rural India (OBS 2018); The Indian Middle Class (OUP 2016, with Aseem Prakash); Caste in Contemporary India (Routledge 2015); Interrogating India’s Modernity (ed. OUP 2013); Caste (OUP 2012). He is editor of the Routledge India book series on ‘Religion and Citizenship. He is the recipients of the ICSSR-Amartya Sen Award for Distinguished Social Scientists.

Reviews

[Pruthvi Raj K S B · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a student of Sociology, for whom the study of caste is indispensable while studying Indian society, I can say that this is one of the most profound books on the subject. Although it's published under the Oxford Short Introductions series, the extent and depth of coverage is not compromised. The brilliance of Prof Jodhka lies in distilling so complicated and so ideologically debated topic into an Oxford Short Introduction.

Without any prejudices and predispositions, Jodhka clinically examines the subject with objective neutrality. From its historical origins through its ideological justifications to the present day relevance (or irrelevance), he covers it all.

He surveys the studies on the subject by other eminent sociologists belonging to different traditions of sociological thought and quotes them liberally. From its functional role to it's tendency to create conflict, Jodhka sheds light on the good, bad and ugly aspects of the caste.

The book itself is woven in a neat fashion with properly arranged chapters. Jodhka's command over the subject as also the English language enables him to deliver a fine book with ease. I liked the book as much for it's matter as it's elegant language.

This book is a good read for all those who want to understand caste in all its dimensions, and a priceless possession for a student of Sociology.

[Frank Ashe · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good introduction to the idea of caste, its evolving nature, and its place in modern India.

[Arvind Dahiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, well researched and draws out the framework of caste as it has existed and evolved. A read for those want to learn about caste without getting into complexities.