What is meant by overlapping of social differences? Explain with the help of examples.
Ans. When some social differences overlap other differences, it creates overlapping of social differences. This kind of situation produces social divisions, when one kind of social difference becomes more important than the other and people start feeling that they belong to different communities. Overlapping differences create possibilities of deep social divisions and tensions.
For example,
(i) The difference between the Blacks and Whites became a social division in the US because the Blacks always tend to be poor, homeless and discriminated against.
(ii) In our country, Dalits tend to be poor and landless as they often free injustice and discrimination.