"...A lot of young kids are dropping out of high school for whatever reason. Does that mean they are now part of the "cast system" like they had in  India?..."

I don't think the caste system is the best description. Your caste kept you down in India, no matter your ability. You were barred from certain employment opportunities, choices. You were what you were born, and you didn't work your way up via merit.

Whereas in America, with the proper ambition, you can pretty much rise to any level, even President. You can rise to your limits, not limits placed on you by society, culture.

Here, people are kept down by their refusal to accept mainstream mores, culture; by eschewing education, and by being considered victims of society instead of accepting their unfortunate fate is primarily the result of poor lifestyle choices they have made.

Rick

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