Durkheim in India: Analyzing Caste, Religion, and Solidarity Through a Durkheimian Lens

This research paper examines the applicability of Émile Durkheim’s sociological framework to the Indian context, with a particular focus on the intersecting roles of caste, religion, and social solidarity. As a foundational figure in sociology, Durkheim conceptualized society as a moral community held together by collective beliefs and practices, which is especially pertinent in understanding India’s enduring social structures. The caste system, traditionally based on notions of purity, hierarchy, and hereditary occupation, is analyzed through Durkheim’s concept of mechanical solidarity, which binds individuals through shared values and a collective conscience. The study also explores the challenges posed to this solidarity in a society transitioning towards modernity and increasing social differentiation—conditions that require a shift towards organic solidarity. Furthermore, the role of religion in Indian society is critically examined through Durkheim’s lens, highlighting its integrative function in maintaining moral boundaries and communal identity. By incorporating insights from Indian thinkers such as B.R. Ambedkar and M.N. Srinivas, this paper blends classical theory with indigenous perspectives, offering a nuanced view of Indian social life. It argues that despite the rise of individualism and secularism, caste and religion continue to shape collective behavior, contributing to both cohesion and conflict. Overall, the study emphasizes the continuing relevance of Durkheimian theory in interpreting social phenomena beyond the Western world, advocating for a comparative sociological approach.