400+ commentary (religion)

            In my opinion the morality of Judaism benefits cultural work for American society more than the caste system based on the morality commonly associated with Hindus. In America, success in the work place originates from perseverance and hard work. A staff member who is merely a “team mate”, and doesn’t have much or any power in the work place, can strive to prove they have the characteristics and ability needed to be a manager.

An excellent example would be Marshall Mathers, more commonly known by his stage name “Eminem”. In the early 90’s Mathers had a job cooking and washing dishes at a restaurant for minimum wage (Bozza); but in 1999 his album “The Slim Shady LP” won Grammy Award for Best Rap Album and his second album, “The Marshall Mathers LP” broke the record for fastest selling album in the United States. (Skanse) This is a perfect example of someone who went from average to awe-inspiring by working to make it to the top.

            Hinduism includes a caste system that does not exist in the beliefs of those who follow Judaism. The caste system is based on hereditary rights that lead to severe social restrictions. Though there are castes that are not affected by this system in a negative way, the members of the lower social status suffer greatly. Those born into the higher class have the privilege of staying in the same class for their entire life. In return, the members of the shunned caste, also known as the untouchables, are discriminated against until they die. Regardless of their efforts, the outcastes have no way of moving up in the caste system.

The system enforces social classes that define who a person is and assigns them pre-designated profession and even required living places. It creates unbreakable social boundaries that are extremely taboo and could cost a higher member their social status if violated. Judaism allows individuals to choose a trade of their choice. It also permits them to live where they choose- within the boundaries of their financial resources. In the Hindu caste system members engage in their labor often and work hard because they are not provided with much monetary support while Judaism promotes the desire to exert more effort in ones occupation to achieve success which in turn will, hopefully, lead to more financial remuneration.

People such as Ben Franklin, Thomas Edison, and Henry Ford may have never flourished without the freedom provided by the morals of Judaism. A caste system could have prevented them from exploring fields of interests and discovering things that benefit Americans even to this day. This is why morals from Judaism benefit cultural work for America more than the Hindu caste system would.




Citations:

Bozza, Anthony. Whatever You Say I Am The Life and Times of Emminem. New York: Crown Publishing Group, 2003. pg. 14. Print

Skanse, Richard. "Eminem Bounces Britney From Top Spot." Rolling Stones 31 May 2000: n. pag. Web. 20 Sep 2010