The life cycle of a joint family depends on economic factors rather than social values. Discuss.
UPSC Mains
Syllabus topic
Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
Why was this question asked?
The life cycle of a joint family depends on economic factors rather than social values. Discuss.
Introduction
Joint family is a prevalent form of family structure in India, where several generations live together under one roof. It is often believed that social values such as mutual respect, harmony, and collective decision-making determine the life cycle of a joint family. However, economic factors play a crucial role in determining its longevity.
Body
Dependency on economic factors:
1. Economic stability: A joint family requires a stable source of income to sustain its members’ needs. Economic instability can lead to conflict and fragmentation of the family.
2. Inheritance and property disputes: Disputes over inheritance and property can arise when the family’s economic resources are inadequate, leading to further division and fragmentation.
3. Urbanization: The migration of family members to urban areas in search of better economic opportunities can weaken the bonds of a joint family.
4. Changing employment patterns: Modern employment patterns, such as flexible work hours, frequent transfers, and long-distance commuting, can make it challenging to maintain a joint family structure.
However, its survival rests even more on social values:
1. Mutual respect: Respect for each other’s opinions, beliefs, and values fosters a sense of unity and cohesion in a joint family.
2. Collective decision-making: In a joint family, important decisions are made collectively, and everyone’s opinion is valued.
3. Emotional support: Joint families offer emotional support and security to its members, particularly the elderly and children.
4. Sharing of resources: Joint families facilitate the sharing of resources, which helps reduce the economic burden on individual members.
5. Traditional values: Joint families uphold traditional values such as respect for others, care for the younger generation, and community living.
Conclusion
As the saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child,” and joint families provide just that – a village of love, support, and togetherness that can endure the test of time with the right balance of economic stability and social values.
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