Kastijärjestelmän

Kastijärjestelmään is a Finnish term that translates to "caste system" in English. It refers to a rigid social hierarchy where an individual's social status is determined by birth and is largely unchangeable throughout their life. This system often dictates a person's occupation, marriage prospects, and social interactions. Historically, caste systems have been associated with various cultures, most notably in South Asia, where they were deeply entrenched in religious and social structures.

In societies with a caste system, individuals are born into a specific caste, and this affiliation is inherited by their children. Movement between castes is typically forbidden or extremely difficult, creating distinct social strata with varying levels of privilege and discrimination. The system is often justified by religious or cultural beliefs that assign different roles and perceived purity to each caste.

While the term "caste system" is most commonly linked to India, similar hierarchical structures based on birthright have existed in other parts of the world. Modern human rights movements and legal frameworks in many countries have worked to dismantle or outlaw formal caste discrimination, although social and economic inequalities stemming from historical caste divisions can persist. The concept remains a significant topic in sociology, anthropology, and discussions of social justice.