Social Science · Class 12
Sociology: Social Change
Learn Sociology: Social Change with notes, examples, and practice questions.
4 sections15–25 min read6 MCQs · 2 examples
Chapter Overview
Social change in India covers modernisation, social reform movements, caste and class dynamics, women's movements, secularism, and challenges of development and globalisation.
Processes of Change
- Modernisation — science, education, urbanisation
- Westernisation vs Sanskritisation (M.N. Srinivas)
- Social reform: Raja Ram Mohan Roy to Ambedkar
- Colonialism and nationalism transformed society
Caste and Class
- Caste system — varna and jati; occupational linkage
- Constitutional abolition of untouchability; reservation policy
- Class stratification in modern economy
- Intersectionality of caste, class, gender
Movements
- Women's movement — legal reforms, SHGs
- Dalit assertion and cultural politics
- Environmental and tribal rights movements
- Globalisation's impact on culture and labour
Solved Examples
Step-by-step solutions — read each step before checking the final answer.
Sanskritisation
What is Sanskritisation?
- 1Lower groups adopt upper-caste practices
- 2Mobility within caste system (M.N. Srinivas)
Answer
Emulation of upper-caste norms for social mobility
Social reform
How did Ambedkar fight caste inequality?
- 1Education and political organisation
- 2Drafted Constitution; demanded annihilation of caste
Answer
Political mobilisation, constitutional safeguards, and social critique
Key Points to Remember
- ✓ Indian society undergoing rapid change
- ✓ Reform movements challenged tradition
- ✓ Caste persists despite legal abolition of untouchability
- ✓ Social movements advance rights of marginalised
Exam Tips
- • Explain Sanskritisation
- • Role of Constitution in social change
- • One women's movement achievement
Practice MCQs — Sociology: Social Change
Test your understanding with topic-wise multiple choice questions. Explanations appear after each answer.
Question 1 of 6Score: 0/0
Sanskritisation concept by: