| − | '''Untouchables''' are the very bottom of the [[Indian]] [[caste system]]. They were people who, under the system, literally are not be touched because they are considered to be so undesirable. Good [[karma]] enables one to improve his caste in the next life (see [[reincarnation]]). Today, caste [[discrimination]] is illegal in [[India]] but still persists in rural areas. | + | '''Untouchables''' are at the very bottom of the [[Indian]] [[caste system]]. They are people who, under the system, should not be touched because they are undesirable. According to the [[Indian]] [[caste system]], Good [[karma]] enables a person to improve his or her caste in the next life (see [[reincarnation]]). Today, caste [[discrimination]] is illegal in [[India]] but still persists in rural areas. |
| − | Untouchables are also found in some other parts of the world, such as Gypsies in Europe, Burakumin in Japan, among others. | + | Untouchables may also be found in other parts of the world. Examples include Gypsies in Europe, and Burakumin (部落身) in Japan, among others. |