Allocation Criterion as a Function of Situational Factors and Caste

Perception and principles of distributive justice may vary due to the sociocultural variations and availability of resources. This study examines perception of determinants of allocation norms in a predominantly scarce resource society, like India. One-hundred forty-eight respondents belonging to the upper, middle, and lower caste groups were asked to rate the factors (e.g., educational qualifications, economic condition, caste, etc.) that may influence decisions related to admission, award of financial assistance, and job recruitment. Results suggest that perception of salience of factors was determined both by the nature of the situation and caste background of the respondent.