The Positive Background of Hindu Sociology c5.s4.7

c5.s4.7

In the discussion of the rôle of learning as a "social elevator" or ladder and of the educational institution as a "channel of vertical circulation" India has her place by the side of China, Turkey, modern Western societies etc. It is pointed out, however, that it is to the upper social strata only that education and initiation are confined, these being forbidden to the Sūdras. Even in this item Sorokin does not find India to be exceptional. Similar situations, says he, "we find in some periods of the European societies also." He quotes the decree of Richard II in England to the effect that "no bondman or bondwoman shall place their children at school, as has been done, so as to advance their children in the world" (pp. 171-172).