A historical survey of social class and caste system in Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study analyzes the practices of social stratification along the lines of stratification theory and relevant published materials. This paper highlighted the social stratification, especially social class and caste systems exercising by Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims communities in Sri Lanka. This study found that the social class has developed among Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims historically, and Sinhalese and Tamils who make up majority of the population in the country have their own distinctive caste system consequently.