Indians today are governed by two different ideologies. Their political ideal set in the preamble of the Constitution affirms a life of liberty, equality and fraternity. Their social ideal embodied in their religion denies them.
B. R. AmbedkarRead
People are not wrong in observing Caste. In my view, what is wrong is their religion, which has inculcated this notion of Caste. If this is correct, then obviously the enemy, you must grapple with is not the people who observe Caste, but the Shastras which teach them this religion of Caste.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Ambedkar argues that the problem lies not with individuals observing caste, but with the religious texts that promote it.
B. R. Ambedkar critically examines the issue of caste in society, asserting that while individuals may adhere to caste practices, the true problem originates from the religious doctrines that endorse and perpetuate these beliefs. He emphasizes the need to challenge the underlying texts and ideologies, rather than solely focusing on the individuals who follow these outdated norms.
Themes
CasteReligionShastrasPhilosophySociety
In practice
Example use cases
In a lecture on social justice, one might quote Ambedkar to highlight the importance of addressing systemic issues rather than blaming individuals.
More from B. R. Ambedkar
All quotes →Political tyranny is nothing compared to the social tyranny and a reformer who defies society is a more courageous man than a politician who defies Government.
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I like the religion that teaches liberty, equality and fraternity.
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Democracy is not merely a form of government. It is primarily a mode of associated living, of conjoint communicated experience. It is essentially an attitude of respect and reverence towards fellow men.
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So long as you do not achieve social liberty, whatever freedom is provided by the law is of no avail to you.
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Law and Order are the medicine of the body politic and when the body politic gets sick, medicine must be administered.
B. R. AmbedkarRead
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