Date Approved

2009

Degree Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department or School

Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology

Committee Member

Jay Weinstein, PhD, Chair

Committee Member

Solange Simoes, PhD

Abstract

India is often noted for the large body of contradictions that exist within it, which has left many observers in a state of bafflement, never really understanding why or how such huge inconsistencies can harmoniously exist. The intent of this thesis is to begin an exploration into India’s mass of contradictions.

The insights of Indian informants were incorporated into this study in an attempt to explain this dilemma. The respondents were interviewed in order to determine whether (1) they are aware that these contradictions exist and (2) whether they attempt to reconcile them and, if so, how. The fascinating interplay between India’s cultural traditions and its economic system can hopefully be better understood as a result of this study. In the future, a similar model may be useful in exploring other developing countries and their own personal sets of contradictions.

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Anthropology Commons

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