Anirban Karak

Anirban Karak is a Collegiate Assistant Professor in the Social Sciences Collegiate Division at the University of Chicago and a Harper-Schmidt Fellow in the Society of Fellows in the Liberal Arts. His research focuses on early modern and modern South Asia, particularly the intersections of caste, capitalism, and subaltern aspirations. He holds a PhD from New York University, an MA in political economy from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and degrees in economics from Jadavpur University in India.

• Education: PhD (NYU), MA (University of Massachusetts, Amherst), BA/MA (Jadavpur University)

His work examines how subaltern actors in pre-colonial and colonial Bengal engaged with capitalist norms to challenge caste hierarchies. Key themes include the history of political economy, comparative caste studies, and the critique of neoliberal frameworks through Marxist theory. His monograph project, Caste, Capitalism, and Subaltern Aspirations in Bengal, 1696-1859, argues that Indian capitalism’s development was not solely a colonial construct but emerged from subaltern agency.

Publications span academic journals and public fora, addressing topics like the history of commerce in Bengal, Marxist critiques of economic theory, and the formation of modern sports leagues. His research bridges historical analysis with contemporary social theory, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches.

Advising and grants are not explicitly detailed in the provided materials, though his academic roles suggest active involvement in mentoring students. He contributes to the Department of History’s initiatives, fostering dialogue on global historical themes and social structures.