By Francesc Borrull · September 17, 2024

Caste is a profound and necessary exploration of the hidden hierarchies that shape our society. With meticulously researched examples, Wilkerson compares the caste systems of the United States, India, and Nazi Germany, illustrating how deeply entrenched these structures are in shaping human behavior and social order. At its core, Caste challenges readers to reconsider how race, class, and power intersect in ways that are often unseen but profoundly impactful.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to weave historical and sociological analysis with personal narrative, making a compelling argument for how caste systems have shaped and continue to influence global and American society. The connections she draws are thought-provoking, and her analysis is filled with powerful insights into how caste underpins social inequality. Wilkerson’s work highlights how this rigid hierarchy continues to dictate social interactions and opportunities, often with devastating consequences.

That said, while I highly recommend the book, I would give it 4 out of 5 stars. The reason for this is that, at times, the narrative can feel somewhat meandering. Wilkerson includes an abundance of examples, which, while important, sometimes feel excessive. There were moments where I felt the book could have been more concise; perhaps 400 pages would have been more impactful than the 600 it spans. Baltasar Gracián’s phrase, “Lo bueno, si breve, dos veces bueno,” comes to mind — the good, when brief, is twice as good. I found myself occasionally wanting more focus and precision rather than extensive illustration of points that were already well-made.

Nonetheless, Caste is an important, necessary book, one that will leave readers questioning the invisible forces shaping society. Despite its length, Wilkerson’s analysis is powerful, and her message is one that needed to be written and read. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the deeper structures behind racial and social inequalities.

© Francesc Borrull, 2024

P.S. You can buy Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents here. (Disclaimer: I do not receive any compensation or commission from this link; I’m just sharing a great book!)