Write a short note on Hegemony.
"Chandal" is a term historically used in South Asia to denote individuals considered to be outside the varna (caste) system, often subjected to severe social discrimination and ostracization. The term originated from Sanskrit and referred to those who performed tasks deemed impure or polluRead more
"Chandal" is a term historically used in South Asia to denote individuals considered to be outside the varna (caste) system, often subjected to severe social discrimination and ostracization. The term originated from Sanskrit and referred to those who performed tasks deemed impure or polluting, such as handling dead bodies or working with leather.
In Indian society, Chandal was associated with the lowest strata of social hierarchy, facing systemic oppression and exclusion due to their perceived impurity. They were often denied access to public spaces, educational opportunities, and social interactions, relegated to marginalized and dehumanizing roles.
Over time, the term "Chandal" has become synonymous with the experience of untouchability and caste-based discrimination, reflecting the entrenched social hierarchies and inequalities in South Asian societies. Today, efforts are underway to challenge and dismantle caste-based discrimination, promote social justice, and uphold the rights and dignity of individuals historically marginalized as "Chandals."
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Hegemony, a concept introduced by Italian Marxist Antonio Gramsci, refers to the dominance or leadership of one group over others, achieved through a combination of coercion, consent, and cultural influence. Unlike traditional forms of domination that rely solely on force, hegemony operates throughRead more
Hegemony, a concept introduced by Italian Marxist Antonio Gramsci, refers to the dominance or leadership of one group over others, achieved through a combination of coercion, consent, and cultural influence. Unlike traditional forms of domination that rely solely on force, hegemony operates through the manipulation of ideologies, values, and norms to maintain power and control.
In hegemonic systems, the ruling class or dominant group establishes its authority by shaping the beliefs, perceptions, and behaviors of subordinate groups, thereby securing their consent to the existing social order. This process involves the dissemination of hegemonic ideologies through institutions such as education, media, and religion, which serve to naturalize and legitimize the dominance of the ruling class.
However, hegemony is not static and can be challenged or disrupted through resistance, counter-hegemonic movements, and the emergence of alternative ideologies. Gramsci argued that achieving social change requires the creation of a counter-hegemony – a new set of ideas, values, and alliances capable of challenging the existing power structures and promoting the interests of subordinate groups.
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