In his famous work on the changing stratification of a Tanjore village, Andre Beteille observed the changes in-

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In his seminal study of a village in Tanjore, Andre Beteille examined the evolving structure of social stratification and how it was influenced by caste, class, and power dynamics. He observed that over time, there were shifts in the traditional caste-based hierarchies, as well as changes in the economic and political dimensions of the village society.

1. Caste system: Beteille focused on how the caste system, traditionally the primary determinant of social stratification in India, was undergoing transformation due to factors like economic change, education, and political influence.

2. Class system: Alongside caste, Beteille also noted the rise of the class system, as economic factors, such as wealth and land ownership, began to play a more significant role in determining one's social position, leading to a redefinition of social stratification.

3. Power system: The power system was also observed to change as local elites, often from higher caste groups, began to lose their traditional influence, and newer forms of power, related to economic and political activities, gained prominence in the village.

Thus, Beteille’s work highlighted that the changing stratification in Tanjore village was not just about caste but also about the interplay of class and power, reflecting broader social and economic transformations.

Information Booster:

1. Andre Beteille is a renowned Indian sociologist known for his work on caste, class, and power relations in rural India.

2. Beteille's study of the Tanjore village brought attention to how economic changes, such as land reforms and market integration, affected traditional social structures.

3. The caste system historically structured society in India, with rigid boundaries between different groups, but its influence has gradually diminished in urbanized areas.

4. Class is now a more significant determinant of social status in many places, reflecting one’s economic standing rather than birth or caste.

5. The power system is increasingly linked to factors such as political influence, education, and economic status, rather than just traditional caste-based authority.

6. Beteille’s study is often cited as an example of how social stratification evolves over time due to structural changes in society.

Additional Information:

• Caste system: Historically, the caste system in India was a rigid social hierarchy that determined people’s social position based on their birth, affecting their opportunities and status.

• Class system: Over time, economic factors, such as wealth, occupation, and land ownership, began to play a more significant role in defining social status, leading to the development of the class system.

• Power system: Traditional power structures, often based on caste, have given way to more modern forms of power tied to political influence, economic control, and education.