Anonymous
Feb 1
Examine wether the characteristics of prismatic society as propounded by Frederick Riggs and give relevant examples?
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Feb 1
Frederick Riggs, a renowned political scientist, developed the concept of "prismatic society" to describe societies that exhibit certain characteristics. According to Riggs, prismatic societies are characterized by a complex mix of traditional and modern elements, resulting in a fragmented and diverse social structure. Here are some key characteristics of prismatic society as propounded by Riggs, along with relevant examples:
1. Fragmentation: Prismatic societies are characterized by a fragmented social structure, where different social groups have distinct identities and interests. These groups often have limited interaction and may even compete with each other. An example of this can be seen in India, where the society is divided into various castes, religious groups, and linguistic communities, each with its own distinct identity and interests.
2. Pluralism: Prismatic societies exhibit a high degree of pluralism, with multiple centers of power and authority. This can be seen in countries like Nigeria, where power is decentralized among various ethnic groups, leading to a complex political landscape and frequent conflicts between different groups.
3. Dualism: Prismatic societies often have a dualistic administrative structure, with a coexistence of traditional and modern administrative systems. For example, in many African countries, traditional chiefs or tribal leaders continue to hold significant power and influence alongside the modern bureaucratic structures.
4. Informality: Prismatic societies tend to have a significant informal sector, where economic activities are not regulated or monitored by formal institutions. This can be observed in countries like Mexico, where a large portion of the population is engaged in informal economic activities such as street vending or small-scale agriculture.
5. Hybridity: Prismatic societies exhibit a hybrid culture, combining elements of traditional and modern practices. For instance, in Japan, a country often considered as having a prismatic society, traditional cultural practices such as tea ceremonies and kimono-wearing coexist with modern technologies and practices.
It is important to note that the concept of prismatic society is not universally applicable and may have limitations in explaining the complexities of all societies. However, these characteristics and examples provide a general understanding of the concept as propounded by Frederick Riggs.
1. Fragmentation: Prismatic societies are characterized by a fragmented social structure, where different social groups have distinct identities and interests. These groups often have limited interaction and may even compete with each other. An example of this can be seen in India, where the society is divided into various castes, religious groups, and linguistic communities, each with its own distinct identity and interests.
2. Pluralism: Prismatic societies exhibit a high degree of pluralism, with multiple centers of power and authority. This can be seen in countries like Nigeria, where power is decentralized among various ethnic groups, leading to a complex political landscape and frequent conflicts between different groups.
3. Dualism: Prismatic societies often have a dualistic administrative structure, with a coexistence of traditional and modern administrative systems. For example, in many African countries, traditional chiefs or tribal leaders continue to hold significant power and influence alongside the modern bureaucratic structures.
4. Informality: Prismatic societies tend to have a significant informal sector, where economic activities are not regulated or monitored by formal institutions. This can be observed in countries like Mexico, where a large portion of the population is engaged in informal economic activities such as street vending or small-scale agriculture.
5. Hybridity: Prismatic societies exhibit a hybrid culture, combining elements of traditional and modern practices. For instance, in Japan, a country often considered as having a prismatic society, traditional cultural practices such as tea ceremonies and kimono-wearing coexist with modern technologies and practices.
It is important to note that the concept of prismatic society is not universally applicable and may have limitations in explaining the complexities of all societies. However, these characteristics and examples provide a general understanding of the concept as propounded by Frederick Riggs.
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