If America were a game of Monopoly the rules would be a bit different. The following example considers race only to keep it simple. Adding class would be interesting too, but for now I leave that as an exercise for the reader.
Rules:
1. There are four players: one white, one red, one black and one yellow.
2. The white player is the banker.
3. Starting amounts: Before play begins give each player the following amounts to start with:
- $1500 white
- $1085 yellow
- $105 black
- $75 red
(Based on median household net worth in 2000.)
4. When passing Go: Each player will get the following amounts when passing Go:
- $200 white
- $170 yellow
- $140 black
- $120 red
(Based on median personal income for 2000.)
5. Settling disputes: If there is a dispute between players, it is put to a vote. (See Voting below).
6. Changing rules: If a player asks for a rule change, it is put to a vote (See Voting below).
7. Voting: To win a vote a motion must get at least 5.1 votes. Each player gets the following number of votes:
- 8.2 white
- 1.3 black
- 0.4 yellow
- 0.1 red
(Based on those reporting one race on the 2000 census.)
8. Speaking: The white player can speak at any time. Other players speak only when spoken to. They are allowed to raise their hand to try to get the attention of the white player to ask a question.
(Based on media ownership.)
Link here to Abagond blog. Funny. Smart. Infuriating.
