Diversity and Discrimination

 

Diversity

"Diversity" means, and how different factors like the history and geography of a place contribute to its uniqueness.

Diversity has both positive and negative outcomes

1. Positive outcomes include mixing of cultures, learning new things, and becoming more tolerant of differences
2.  Negative outcome - discrimination.

 

In simple terms, discrimination is being partial against a person or a group of people because of their gender, skin colour, religion, nationality, or culture.

Examples  

1. Discrimination can be when children tease their peers who have a darker skin tone, and consider it as ugly.
2. People who cannot speak English fluently are considered less intelligent or less educated by people who can. 

When we form such negative opinions about people just because they are different from us, we are said to be prejudiced against them.

 

PREJUDICE

Prejudice – “Developing a dislike for people or seeing people as inferior because they are different from each other.”

To tease someone just because he only eats rice and not roti is unreasonable and unjust to that person. So is considering people inferior just because they pronounce certain English words differently than us.

Giving preference to one group over another without any reason is also prejudice.

Besides complexion and language, there are many other things about which we can form a negative opinion:

The clothes people wear, their religious beliefs, their food, the region they belong to, etc.

 

STEREOTYPES

A stereotype refers to a fixed image of people or a group on the basis of their religion, occupation, sex, wealth, language, etc.

If we say that women are good only at household work, we are creating a stereotype. This is because women are good/capable in many other kinds of work also. Some may work as doctors, teachers, vegetable hawkers, etc., while some may not work at all.Therefore, to say, women can only do housework is being unfair to them. It creates a fixed image in our minds, which is often not true.

 

When we stereotype people, we begin associating an entire group of people with one image or quality. For example, if we say all tribals are uneducated, poor, dirty, and unintelligent, or all foreigners are beautiful, tall, and rich, we are stereotyping them.

This stereotyping can prevent people from doing things they want to. It can affect what they think about themselves and others. It can even influence the occupations they choose. For example, boys are usually brought up to believe they are superior to girls.  They are even discouraged from choosing occupations like nursing, dancing, etc., because traditionally these occupations were followed by girls.

 

STEREOTYPES ON THE BASIS OF GENDER

Gender often forms the basis for stereotypes.

Young girls and boys are given different kinds of toys to play with. Girls are usually given dolls, while boys are encouraged to play with tanks and action figures.

Girls are told to choose pink colour while blue for boys.

Girls are expected to be soft and meek, while boys are expected to be tough and strong.

These are not qualities that girls and boys are born with. Rather, these are stereotypes they are expected to fit into gender stereotype

 

 

STEREOTYPES ON THE BASIS OF REGION, RACE, OR RELIGION

Sometimes, people form a particular image about others just because they follow a different religion or belong to a different race. Sometimes, people generalize views or judge others based on the region in which they live, the religion they follow or the race they belong to.

 

For example, people living in the northeastern region of India have been stereotyped for their looks. Their facial looks are little different from people of other states. People often gaze at them and consider them "different" from the rest of the country. This type of stereotype is unfavorable and must be curbed by creating awareness among people.

 

Sometimes people even associate one particular group of people or community with crime or violence. At other times, people label others belonging to a particular country, race, religion, gender, or economic background as lazy, dumb, or miserly.

 

Such stereotypes are rather unfair. All communities and countries have people who have such qualities. It does not mean everyone in their community or country is like them.

 

 

DISCRIMINATION

Discrimination is said to take place when people act on the basis of their prejudices or stereotypes.

Discrimination can be practised in many ways

·        people may exclude certain people from participating in activities

·        They may prevent them from taking up certain occupations

·        They may bar them from living in some areas

·        They may have problems travelling with them, or sharing food, or drink with them, etc.

 

REASONS FOR DISCRIMINATION -

DIVERSITY AND INEQUALITY

Both diversity and inequality can be reasons for discrimination.

 

1. People can be discriminated against because of what makes them diverse.  

Aspects of diversity- such as religion, region, customs, gender, etc., often form the basis for discrimination For example, Indian women have been struggling against discrimination since independence, especially in the field of education. There is a wide gap between girls and boys even today when it comes to education. This is simply because education of girls is not considered important by many people. They feel the role of women is restricted to taking care of their families.

 

2. People may also be discriminated against because of their economic background or caste People who are poor are often treated badly. They lack the resources to meet their basic needs and often cannot afford to send their children to schools and get good jobs. They often end up being exploited due to their low economic status and are made to accept poor pay for work.

 

3. Often communities can be excluded from society because of their diversity as well as economic status. For example, tribals have faced a lot of discrimination in Indian society because they followed different social and religious customs, and spoke different languages which were not valued by other people in the society. Also, they were often quite poor. Similarly, there have been many regional and religious groups who have been discriminated against not just because they are different, but also because they are poor.

 

 

STRIVING FOR EQUALITY

At the time of independence, many groups were fighting against discrimination and demanding an equal status in society. Poor people, women and peasants were fighting against the inequalities they faced in their lives. They wanted to have equal rights.

 

Indian leaders were also concerned with the inequalities that existed in our society at that time. They considered equality and respect for diversity as necessary conditions for ensuring unity of our people. So they formulated some rules to ensure all people would be treated equally, in independent India. These provisions have been included in our Constitution.

 

 

CONSTITUTION AND EQUALITY

The Constitution bans 'untouchability' in all its forms. The practice of 'untouchability' has been made a punishable offence under the Act of 1955.

 

Article 15 of the Constitution prohibits discrimination on any ground religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It is this Article that guarantees no citizen can be prohibited from entering public places. Anyone can go to public places like a temple, playground, market, etc.

 

 

The Constitution guarantees all Indian citizens the right to equality. As per the Constitution, all laws apply equally to all Indians irrespective of their religion, economic status, etc. It provides equal rights and opportunities to all Indians.

 

People are free to choose their occupations irrespective of their gender, religion, etc.

 

Anyone can apply for a government job. It also lays down equal pay for equal work The Constitution also makes it the government's job to ensure equality to all sections of the society.

 

It gives the government the power to take decisions to uplift socially and economically weaker or backward sections of society through schemes or policies such as reservation of seats in legislatures, government jobs, or educational institutions.

 

Article 46 of the Constitution states, 'The states shall promote with special care, the educational and economic interest of the weaker sections of the people, and shall protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation.'

 

 

CONSTITUTION AND DIVERSITY

The Constitution says, India is a secular country where all religions are considered equal. It does not promote any one religion or language.

The Indian Constitution also ensures respect for diversity by giving people the right to practice their religion freely, speak their language, and celebrate their festivals without any fear of discrimination.

It also gives everyone the right to speak freely. These are part of Fundamental Rights, which are guaranteed by the Constitution to all Indians.

 

 

INEQUALITY STILL EXISTS

 

Although the provisions in our Constitution strive for social and economic equality, not all Indians enjoy equal status even today. Many people like Dalits, tribals, economically poor people still face social discrimination.

Discrimination against women also remains an area of concern.

A majority of Indians are still quite poor and made to work for low wages.

Sometimes, women and poor are even paid less than others for doing the same amount of work.

Equality and respect for diversity is key to our unity. Therefore, it is important for people and the government to constantly work towards creating an equal society.

TEST PAPER 

1. Which of the following is a positive outcome of diversity?

A)  Discrimination

B)   Becoming more tolerant of differences

C)   Prejudice

D)  Teasing others

Answer: B) Becoming more tolerant of differences

Explanation: One of the positive outcomes of diversity is that it helps individuals become more accepting and tolerant of others' differences, leading to a more inclusive society.

 

2. Which of the following best describes "prejudice"?

A)  Accepting people for who they are

B)   Developing a dislike for people because they are different

C)   Learning about different cultures

D)  Celebrating diversity

Answer: B) Developing a dislike for people because they are different

Explanation: Prejudice is a negative attitude or feeling towards individuals based on their differences, leading to unjust judgments or treatment.

 

3. Which of the following is an example of prejudice?

A)  Helping someone learn a new language

B)   Considering someone inferior because of their religious beliefs

C)   Celebrating a cultural festival with others

D)  Sharing food from different regions

Answer: B) Considering someone inferior because of their religious beliefs

Explanation: Prejudice occurs when someone develops a negative opinion or belief about another person based on superficial differences like religion, leading to unfair treatment.

 

4. What is a stereotype?

A)  A detailed and accurate description of a group of people

B)   A fixed and often false image of people based on religion, occupation, or other factors

C)   A positive opinion about a particular group of people

D)  A type of discrimination based on gender

Answer: B) A fixed and often false image of people based on religion, occupation, or other factors

Explanation: A stereotype is a generalized and oversimplified belief or image about a group of people, often not reflecting reality and leading to unfair judgments.

 

5. How can stereotyping affect people?

A)  It encourages them to explore various career options

B)   It limits their opportunities and affects their self-perception

C)   It helps them understand their strengths and weaknesses

D)  It promotes equality among different groups

Answer: B) It limits their opportunities and affects their self-perception

Explanation: Stereotyping can restrict individuals' choices and lead them to believe they are only capable of certain roles or behaviors, negatively impacting their confidence and career paths.

 

6. Which of the following is a stereotype based on region or race?

A)  Believing all foreigners are wealthy

B)   Appreciating diverse cultural traditions

C)   Understanding that people from different regions have unique customs

D)  Learning about the languages spoken in various regions

Answer: A) Believing all foreigners are wealthy

Explanation: Assuming that all people from a particular region or race share the same characteristics, such as wealth or appearance, is an example of stereotyping, which oversimplifies and generalizes groups.

 

7. Why is it unfair to stereotype people?

A)  Because it helps people identify their strengths

B)   Because it encourages them to follow traditional roles

C)   Because it creates false images and limits individuals' potential

D)  Because it accurately reflects the qualities of a group

Answer: C) Because it creates false images and limits individuals' potential

Explanation: Stereotyping is unfair because it imposes false assumptions on individuals, restricting their freedom to express themselves and achieve their potential.

 

8. Which statement is an example of a stereotype?

A)  All boys are stronger than girls

B)   People from different regions have unique languages

C)   Some people prefer traditional clothing over modern styles

D)  Everyone should be treated equally regardless of their background

Answer: A) All boys are stronger than girls

Explanation: The statement "All boys are stronger than girls" is a stereotype because it makes a generalization based on gender, ignoring individual differences and capabilities.

 

9. What is discrimination?

A)  Treating everyone equally regardless of their background

B)   Acting on prejudices or stereotypes to treat people unfairly

C)   Promoting diversity and inclusion in society

D)  Celebrating different cultures and religions

Answer: B) Acting on prejudices or stereotypes to treat people unfairly

Explanation: Discrimination occurs when people act on their prejudices or stereotypes, leading to unfair treatment of individuals based on factors such as religion, gender, or economic status.

 

10. Which of the following factors can lead to discrimination?

A)  Diversity and equality

B)   Inequality and ignorance

C)   Diversity and inequality

D)  Equality and fairness

Answer: C) Diversity and inequality

Explanation: Both diversity (differences in religion, region, customs, gender, etc.) and inequality (differences in economic status or caste) can lead to discrimination when people use these factors to treat others unfairly.

 

 

11. What does Article 15 of the Indian Constitution prohibit?

A)  Discrimination on any ground, including religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth

B)   The practice of any religion in public places

C)   Equal pay for equal work regardless of occupation

D)  The celebration of different festivals across India

Answer: A) Discrimination on any ground, including religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth

Explanation: Article 15 of the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination on various grounds, ensuring that all citizens have equal access to public places and opportunities regardless of their background.

 

12. Why is inequality still a concern in India despite the Constitution's provisions?

A)  Because the Constitution does not guarantee any rights

B)   Because some groups, like Dalits and tribals, still face social discrimination

C)   Because all Indians now enjoy equal status

D)  Because the government does not enforce laws

Answer: B) Because some groups, like Dalits and tribals, still face social discrimination

Explanation: Although the Indian Constitution provides for equality, certain groups, such as Dalits, tribals, and economically poor people, still face discrimination and inequality, highlighting the need for continuous efforts to ensure social justice.

 

13. What is the role of the Indian Constitution in promoting diversity?

A)  It promotes one religion over others

B)   It ensures respect for diversity by protecting religious freedom and cultural practices

C)   It bans all forms of religious and cultural expression

D)  It limits the rights of minority groups

Answer: B) It ensures respect for diversity by protecting religious freedom and cultural practices

Explanation: The Indian Constitution promotes diversity by guaranteeing Fundamental Rights, such as religious freedom, cultural expression, and equal treatment, allowing individuals to practice their beliefs and traditions without fear of discrimination.

 

14. Which Article of the Indian Constitution states that the government should promote the interests of weaker sections of society?

A)  Article 15

B)   Article 46

C)   Article 21

D)  Article 19

Answer: B) Article 46

Explanation: Article 46 of the Indian Constitution mandates that the state should promote the educational and economic interests of weaker sections of society and protect them from social injustice and exploitation.

 

15. What does the term "prejudice" refer to?

A) A legal right guaranteed by the Constitution

B) A practice of social equality

C) An unreasonable dislike for certain people or groups

D) A fixed image regarding a person or a group of people

Answer: C) An unreasonable dislike for certain people or groups

Description: Prejudice involves forming an unjustified negative opinion or attitude toward an individual or group, often without proper knowledge or facts.

 

16. What is a "stereotype"?

A) A legal document that governs a country

B) An act of physical discrimination against lower castes

C) A fixed image regarding a person or a group of people

D) A right to equality

Answer: C) A fixed image regarding a person or a group of people

Description: Stereotypes are oversimplified and generalized beliefs about a person or a group, often leading to misjudgments and biases.

 

17. Who are "Dalits"?

A) A group of people who create the Constitution

B) People from higher castes

C) People from lower or 'untouchable' castes who faced discrimination

D) A term used for fundamental rights

Answer: C) People from lower or 'untouchable' castes who faced discrimination

Description: Dalits are individuals from marginalized communities in India who were historically subjected to untouchability and caste-based discrimination.

 

18. What does the "Constitution" of a country refer to?

A) A fixed image of a person or group

B) A set of rules that govern a country

C) An act of discrimination

D) A practice of avoiding contact with lower castes

Answer: B) A set of rules that govern a country

Description: The Constitution is a legal framework that outlines the fundamental principles and laws by which a country is governed.

 

19.Q. What are "Fundamental Rights"?

A) A form of prejudice

B) Rights guaranteed to all citizens of India by the Constitution

C) The practice of untouchability

D) A term used to describe stereotypes

Answer: B) Rights guaranteed to all citizens of India by the Constitution

Description: Fundamental Rights are essential rights provided by the Constitution of India, ensuring that all citizens are treated equally and with dignity, including the right to freedom, equality, and protection against exploitation.

 

20.Why are equality and respect for diversity important?

A)  They lead to creating stereotypes

B)   They ensure the unity of people

C)   They justify discrimination

D)  They promote prejudice

Answer: B) They ensure the unity of people

Description: Equality and respect for diversity are crucial for fostering unity among people. The Constitution of India aims to ensure these principles, though challenges still exist in fully achieving them in society.

 

21.What is the primary role of a government?

A) To create wealth for individuals
B) To administer a country on behalf of its people
C) To engage in business and trade
D) To promote individual interests

Correct Answer: B) To administer a country on behalf of its people
Explanation: A Government is responsible for administering a country and making decisions in the common interest of its people. It is not primarily focused on creating wealth or promoting individual interests but rather on collective governance.

 

22.Why do people need a government?

A) To encourage competition
B) To enable collective decision-making and create rules
C) To increase individual freedom
D) To suppress dissent

Correct Answer: B) To enable collective decision-making and create rules
Explanation: People need a government to facilitate collective decision-making and establish rules that everyone must follow. This system helps maintain order and avoid chaos in society.

 

23. Which of the following is a way the Government protects the interests of weaker sections of society?

A) Providing luxury items
B) Controlling prices of essential commodities
C) Encouraging businesses to increase profits
D) Promoting individual wealth accumulation

Correct Answer: B) Controlling prices of essential commodities
Explanation: The Government protects the interests of weaker sections by controlling the prices of essential commodities like onions to ensure that price rises do not negatively impact vulnerable parts of society.

 

24. What is the role of the National Government in a country?

A) Managing local public services
B) Handling matters that affect the entire nation, such as defense and foreign policy
C) Overseeing village-level administration
D) Creating rules only for a specific region

Correct Answer: B) Handling matters that affect the entire nation, such as defense and foreign policy
Explanation: The National Government is responsible for overseeing matters that impact the entire country, including defense, foreign policy, currency, and national laws. It operates at the highest level of governance.

 

 

 

25. What can people do if they believe a law is not being followed or they are being discriminated against?

A) Ignore the situation
B) Take the matter to the court
C) Create their own laws
D) File a complaint with the National Government

Correct Answer: B) Take the matter to the court
Explanation: If people feel that a law is not being followed or they are facing discrimination, they have the right to approach the court. The court will then evaluate their claim and take appropriate action if necessary.

 

26.What is the primary responsibility of the Local Government?

A) Managing the country's defense
B) Handling foreign relations
C) Overseeing local matters such as infrastructure and public services
D) Setting national policies

Correct Answer: C) Overseeing local matters such as infrastructure and public services
Explanation: The Local Government operates at the community level, focusing on local issues like infrastructure, public services, and other needs specific to villages, towns, and localities. It does not handle national or international matters, which are the responsibilities of higher levels of government.

 

27. What does the term "Universal Adult Franchise" mean in a democratic system in India?

A) Only educated people can vote
B) Only wealthy individuals can vote
C) All citizens 18 years and above, regardless of their background, can vote
D) Voting rights are limited to a specific race or religion

Correct Answer: C) All citizens 18 years and above, regardless of their background, can vote
Explanation: "Universal Adult Franchise" ensures that all citizens who are 18 years and older, regardless of their education, religion, color, race, or economic condition, have the right to vote in elections. This principle is fundamental in a democracy, allowing everyone an equal say in choosing their representatives.

 

28. In a dictatorship, how is power typically obtained and exercised?

A) Through democratic elections
B) By the consent of the people
C) By force or without the consent of the people
D) Through hereditary succession

Correct Answer: C) By force or without the consent of the people
Explanation: In a dictatorship, power is often obtained and exercised without the consent of the people, and it can be established by force or authoritarian means. The people do not have a role in choosing the leaders or in expressing their opinions freely, as the government is typically highly centralized and repressive.

 

29. In a monarchy, how is the position of the monarch typically acquired?

A) Through election by the people
B) By appointment from an elected parliament
C) Hereditarily, passing from parent to child
D) Through appointment by a foreign government

Correct Answer: C) Hereditarily, passing from parent to child
Explanation: In a monarchy, the position of the monarch is usually inherited according to a hereditary system, where power passes from parent to child. This means that the people do not have a say in selecting the monarch, as the role is passed down within a royal family.

 

 

30. In a presidential form of Government, which of the following statements is true?

A) The President is appointed by the Parliament
B) The President is the head of the Government and the head of the state
C) The President can be easily removed from office
D) The President is selected indirectly by the people

Correct Answer: B) The President is the head of the Government and the head of the state
Explanation: In a presidential system, the President serves as both the head of the Government and the head of the state. The President is elected directly by the people for a fixed term, and removing the President from office is typically difficult.

 

31. In a parliamentary form of Government, how can the Prime Minister be removed from office?

A) By a direct vote of the people
B) Through a decision by the President
C) By a vote in the Parliament
D) By a military coup

Correct Answer: C) By a vote in the Parliament
Explanation: In a parliamentary system, the Prime Minister is selected from among the representatives elected by the people and can be removed from office through a vote in the Parliament. The President, in this system, is usually the head of the state but is not directly elected by the people and does not have a role in removing the Prime Minister.

 

32. What is the primary purpose of a constitution in a country?

A) To establish trade agreements with other countries
B) To govern the day-to-day activities of the Government
C) To lay down the fundamental rules and structure of Government
D) To manage international relations and diplomacy

Correct Answer: C) To lay down the fundamental rules and structure of Government
Explanation: The primary purpose of a constitution is to outline the fundamental rules and structure of Government. It defines the type of Government a country will have, such as a parliamentary democracy or federal system, and delineates the powers and functions of the Government, ensuring that no Government operates outside its provisions.

 

33. Which of the following is a characteristic of a written Constitution?

A) It is easy to amend and change frequently
B) It consists of a collection of laws and rules not systematically written down
C) It provides a detailed, written document outlining the fundamental rules, powers, and rights
D) It is only used by unitary Governments

Correct Answer: C) It provides a detailed, written document outlining the fundamental rules, powers, and rights
Explanation: A written Constitution is characterized by its detailed, written document that outlines the fundamental rules, the powers of Government organs, and the rights of the people. It is generally more difficult to amend compared to an unwritten Constitution.

 

34.Which of the following best describes a rigid Constitution?

A) It can be easily amended or changed
B) It is inflexible and changes only through a difficult process
C) It is only used by unitary Governments
D) It consists of unwritten laws and rules

Correct Answer: B) It is inflexible and changes only through a difficult process
Explanation: A rigid Constitution is characterized by its difficulty to amend or change, often requiring a complex and stringent process. This type of Constitution is typically used by federal Governments, such as that of the USA.