Which of the following are the characteristics of prismatic model of F.W. Riggs?

(a) Formalism
(b) Heterogeneity
(c) Overlapping
(d) Bureau of office

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is A

F.W. Riggs' Prismatic Model is a framework used to analyze political systems, particularly in developing countries. The model is centered around the characteristics of a society that is undergoing modernization and has a mixture of traditional and modern elements. The model emphasizes the complexity and contradictions inherent in such societies. Let's break down each characteristic:

• (A) Formalism: This is indeed a characteristic of Riggs' prismatic model. Formalism refers to the existence of formal rules, procedures, and structures that may not align with the actual practices in society. In the prismatic society, formal structures may exist, but they are not always followed effectively in practice, creating a gap between formal and informal practices.

• (B) Heterogeneity: This is another important characteristic of Riggs' prismatic model. Heterogeneity refers to the diversity and complexity in a society, especially in newly developing or modernizing states. In such societies, there is often a mix of traditional and modern practices, beliefs, and values, creating a multi-layered structure.

• (C) Overlapping: Overlapping is also a key characteristic of the prismatic model. This refers to the coexistence of different systems, structures, and elements in society that overlap or exist simultaneously. For example, modern administrative systems may operate alongside traditional forms of governance, leading to overlapping practices.

• (D) Bureau of office: This characteristic is not a central feature of Riggs' prismatic model. The concept of "bureau of office" is not associated with the prismatic model’s key attributes. While the model deals with bureaucratic systems, "bureau of office" as a specific characteristic is not emphasized.

Thus, the correct answer is (1) (A), (B) and (C) only.

Information Booster:

• Formalism: In a prismatic society, formal structures such as laws, regulations, and official systems often exist, but the actual functioning of these systems may differ from the intended objectives. There may be a disconnect between what is prescribed by formal rules and how society operates in practice.

• Heterogeneity: The prismatic model emphasizes the coexistence of diverse elements from different stages of development. Societies that are modernizing often exhibit a mix of old and new, traditional and modern elements, leading to complex, multifaceted social structures.

• Overlapping: Riggs highlights the simultaneous presence of different and sometimes contradictory elements within the same society. For instance, the traditional social structure may exist alongside modern economic institutions, creating complexities in governance, culture, and social relations.

• Bureau of Office: This is not typically a characteristic of the prismatic model. While Riggs discusses bureaucratic structures, he focuses more on how these structures function in a hybrid or prismatic society, where both traditional and modern elements coexist, leading to confusion and inefficiency rather than a focus on bureaucratic offices themselves.