The caste system has been around since the Vedic age. It was introduced by the invading Aryans to maintain their ruling and merchant class status.

The caste system has been around since the Vedic age. It was introduced by the invading Aryans to maintain their ruling and merchant class status. It initially started as a division of labor and over the time it became hereditary. In the caste system, an individual's family background determines his/her social/economic status in society.  Despite the efforts by the governments and by religious figures such as Gandhi, the caste system is still a reality in India today. While some people blame religion for this institution, others blame the dominant culture in India. I would like you to take a stand on this issue. Is it culture or religion to blame for the continuing existence of the caste system?

Also, while the modern nation states including the United States are founded on the ideal of equal opportunity for all citizens without privileged classes, whether such an ideal has been realized is a matter of debate. Some argue that modern/industrialized societies provide opportunities for all the citizens regardless of their family background to realize their potential and to climb the ladders of success. Others think that modern/industrialized societies have their version of the caste system and one's family background determines his/her social/economic status in society. What do you think?