What did Rankrishna Mukherjee mean by ‘sociology of Indian sociology’? Explain.

Sociology of Indian Sociology: Unpacking Rankrishna Mukherjee's Concept

Rankrishna Mukherjee, an influential Indian sociologist, introduced the concept of the 'sociology of Indian sociology' to address the need for a critical examination of the discipline within the Indian context. The term encapsulates Mukherjee's call for self-reflection and introspection within the field of sociology, emphasizing the importance of understanding the unique socio-cultural landscape of India.

Mukherjee advocated for an exploration of the historical, cultural, and social specificities that shape the discipline of sociology in India. He urged scholars to scrutinize the foundational assumptions, methodologies, and theoretical frameworks imported from Western sociological traditions, recognizing the necessity of adapting these to the Indian milieu.

One key aspect of the 'sociology of Indian sociology' is the acknowledgment of the diversity inherent in Indian society. Mukherjee emphasized that sociological theories developed in Western contexts might not seamlessly apply to the intricate social fabric of India. Hence, there is a need to contextualize sociological concepts, ensuring they resonate with the complexities of caste, religion, language, and regional variations within the country.

Moreover, Mukherjee underscored the importance of indigenous perspectives and voices in shaping sociological discourse. He advocated for the inclusion of local knowledge, cultural nuances, and lived experiences of diverse communities in the study of Indian society. This approach moves away from a Eurocentric lens, fostering a more inclusive and authentic representation of sociological phenomena in India.

Additionally, the 'sociology of Indian sociology' calls for a critical examination of the role of sociologists in influencing public policy and social change. Mukherjee urged scholars to actively engage with issues like poverty, inequality, and social justice, emphasizing the responsibility of sociology to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of Indian society.

In essence, Rankrishna Mukherjee's 'sociology of Indian sociology' challenges the uncritical transplantation of Western sociological paradigms onto the Indian social landscape. It encourages scholars to reflect on their own disciplinary foundations, adapt methodologies to the Indian context, and prioritize the inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives. The concept stands as a call for an intellectually vibrant and socially relevant sociology that genuinely reflects the complex realities of Indian society.