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43 pages 1 hour read

B. R. Ambedkar

Annihilation of Caste

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1936

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Essay Topics

1.

How does Ambedkar portray himself throughout the speech? Use examples from his self-descriptions, and explain how he is a trustworthy voice on this topic. How does his identity construction in the speech influence its themes?

2.

Why does Ambedkar argue that social reform must precede political and economic reform? Does this say something unique about Indian and Hindu society?

3.

How does Ambedkar argue that Hinduism is different from other major religions, especially those he explicitly mentions, such as Christianity and Islam? What does this difference require in terms of social reform?

4.

What does Ambedkar have to say to those who would argue that the caste system is merely a system by which labor is divided and not a personal judgment? What details support his argument?

5.

Ambedkar argues that there is actually no such thing as “Hindu society.” Why does he say this, and does he provide sufficient evidence to make such a claim? How does he envision a future Indian society in this case?

6.

Does Ambedkar argue for a revision of the prevailing caste system, or does he advocate for a total rejection of caste? If the latter, does he offer a solution or system with which it could be replaced? How does he envision Indian society and Hinduism being reformed?

7.

Is there a distinction between the Hindu religion and the wider society at large? Explore how Ambedkar draws lines between India, Hinduism, and society itself, and how he explains their inter-relations. How does he suggest these aspects can meld to improve India in the future?

8.

What is the difference that Ambedkar outlines between principles and rules, and why does he make such a distinction? What is the purpose in clarifying the difference between them, and what use is made of it? What does this say about his vision for Indian society?

9.

Is there anything similar to the caste system in modern, Western culture, or is it a unique phenomenon isolated to India and Hindu religion and culture? What would Ambedkar say? In his argument, does India require a unique reform that cannot be compared to reform in other countries? What is this reform?

10.

Does Ambedkar consider the annihilation of caste to be a goal that can be achieved in his lifetime, or is it more of an idealistic notion that should guide reform efforts without having any hope of success? How does Ambedkar envision the future of Indian society, especially in light of the end of his speech?

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