What is a caste system? A caste system is a type of social structure which divides people on the basis of inherited social status. More simply put, it is a system that defines your place in society based on the status of your parents
Higher castes traditionally hold all of the political power, and the castes may be divided further through language, culture, and economics. In general it defines your standing in society, your education, your what job you will have etc...
Within a caste system, each member generally knows his or her place, and your social status is usually apparent to others as well.
Gorean society runs on a caste system. You will see that the Gorean caste system is different from those on Earth and unique to our world. The caste structure of the city-state culture is not something that 'fits' into other structures; it IS a structure of itself and it belongs to the city-state societies, no other. It includes trade, behavior codes, tradition and even dress codes.
There are four groups that do not fall in to the caste system: Priest-King, slave, outlaw and those afflicted with Dar-Kosis. Priest Kings are above the caste system. Slaves and outlaws are considered beneath it. Those afflicted with Dar-Kosis are considered the walking dead and the dead do not have jobs.
All Free Men of Gor are expected to participate in whichever caste the were born in to.
“A man who refused to practice his livelihood or strove to alter status without the consent of the Council of High Castes was, by definition, an outlaw and subject to impalement.”
Book 1, Tarnsman: Pgs. 45-46
Most castes on Gor have their own color or set of colors. You will see these colors as a full outfit or perhaps an arm band or sash. Banners or signs done in caste colors will often be hung at businesses or homes to identify places in the city.
Castes on Gor are split in to two major sections: The high castes and the low castes.