Dowry is not an aberration but a structural outcome of patriarchy, caste hierarchy, and aspirational social mobility. Discuss.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Role of women and women’s organization
Topic: Role of women and women’s organization
Q2. Dowry is not an aberration but a structural outcome of patriarchy, caste hierarchy, and aspirational social mobility. Discuss. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question The continuing prevalence of dowry despite constitutional equality, legal prohibition, and social modernisation has been highlighted by recent judicial observations. Key Demand of the question The question seeks an analytical discussion of dowry as a structural product of patriarchy, caste hierarchy, and aspirational social mobility, rather than viewing it as an isolated or aberrational practice. Structure of the Answer Introduction Briefly locate dowry within the institution of marriage and social stratification in India, indicating why it persists despite formal legal disapproval. Body Examine how patriarchy shapes gender roles, inheritance patterns, and economic dependence in marriage. Analyse the role of caste hierarchy and hypergamy in sustaining dowry as a mechanism of status preservation. Discuss how aspirational social mobility and consumerism have transformed dowry into a competitive social practice. Conclusion Underline that dismantling dowry requires addressing embedded social structures and value systems, alongside legal enforcement.
Why the question The continuing prevalence of dowry despite constitutional equality, legal prohibition, and social modernisation has been highlighted by recent judicial observations.
Key Demand of the question The question seeks an analytical discussion of dowry as a structural product of patriarchy, caste hierarchy, and aspirational social mobility, rather than viewing it as an isolated or aberrational practice.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction Briefly locate dowry within the institution of marriage and social stratification in India, indicating why it persists despite formal legal disapproval.
• Examine how patriarchy shapes gender roles, inheritance patterns, and economic dependence in marriage.
• Analyse the role of caste hierarchy and hypergamy in sustaining dowry as a mechanism of status preservation.
• Discuss how aspirational social mobility and consumerism have transformed dowry into a competitive social practice.
Conclusion Underline that dismantling dowry requires addressing embedded social structures and value systems, alongside legal enforcement.