Informed Inclusion Book Club - Caste (Discussion II)
In her ground-breaking work, Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent, Isabel Wilkerson reframes the problem of racism in America as a caste system. The author won a Pulitzer for her previous book and the writing in this one is beautiful and compelling. Having said that, the book clocks in at over 500 pages. In order to give it justice, our book group will break up our discussion in two parts. For each, we also recommend a synopsis that you can read. And we welcome people who haven’t read/digested the material but would like to participate and learn.
Discussion I (May 25): The American Caste System
Our first discussion will revolve around the explanation of caste systems and the comparisons that Wilkerson makes between the systems in the United States, India and Nazi Germany. These comparisons help us see our own society in a new light. The discussion will focus on Parts 1-4 of the book.
Want to get a quick feel for this argument Including the eight pillars of caste outlined by Wilkerson? Please see the short synopsis of the book here https://www.getstoryshots.com/books/caste-summary/
Discussion II (June 22): Leaving the Caste System Behind
The second discussion will focus on how the United States can move beyond our caste system. The analogies with the Nazis and India are helpful here too but there is much to discuss about the unique moment in American history. The discussion will focus on Parts 5-7 of the book.
Want to get a quick feel for the way forward? We recommend reading the book’s epilogue: A World Without Caste.
The Book Club leaders are Laura Liss and John Weber from XPX’s Chicago chapter. More Book Club leaders, especially those who self-identify as diverse, are strongly encouraged to email Laura Liss if they have an interest in getting involved (laura@lisslamar.com) or you may volunteer live during the Zoom meeting. Please also contact Laura Liss with any other questions about the Book Club.
Can't make this meeting? Be sure to sign up for the Informed Inclusion email list in your profile so you get future notices about Book Club meetings. Our intention is to hold these meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month.
View the full list of books we'll be reading in future meetings: