The Persistence of Power Structures

The Persistence of Power Structures: Gender, Caste, and Religion as Tools of Oppression

Power structures upholding a broad range of inequalities are notably resistant to efforts at loosening their hold and transforming the world in more egalitarian directions. What factors contribute to the persistence of these power structures in the face of widespread dissatisfaction and mass movements to dismantle them? Why is it so difficult to reduce inequalities that negatively impact the bulk of humanity? In this talk, Dr. Jack Miller examines the role played by gender, caste, and religious identities in supporting unequal and oppressive institutions and practices around the world.

Dr. Jack Miller is an author, professor, speaker, and podcaster who has been teaching and writing about politics for more than 30 years. He teaches American politics and political philosophy in the Hatfield School of Government at Portland State University and is the host and producer of three podcasts: The Pothole Problem, which examines ways of looking at the world to cultivate a less frustrating and more satisfying relationship with politics; Two Ring Circus, a podcast about Congress; and Applied Political Philosophy, which explores political reform. His two novels — 1994, a novel of politics (2019) and Invisible Empire (2020) — explore enduring political dynamics through the lens of historical fiction. His third novel, The Silent Majority, is planned for a 2024 release. Video lectures and public performances are available on his YouTube channel.

Seating is on a first come, first served basis. The library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. A livestream will also be available at https://www.youtube.com/@LakeOLib/streams 

For more information contact Nancy Niland at nniland@lakeoswego.city or (503) 675-2538