BLOG #1 Privilege, Power, and Difference by Allan Johnson
ARGUMENT: This author, Alan Johnson, argues that privilege, power, and difference are interconnected, and this is creating inequality and oppression in society. He argues that privilege and power continue to cause inequalities and demean certain groups based on factors such as race, gender, class, and sexuality. Johnson's main point is that privilege and power must be recognized, and individuals need to be self-aware of their privilege and how other social classes are affected by it. In his work, Johnson defines how different forms of privilege operate within society. He emphasizes that privilege represents unearned advantages that some individuals have due to their class or group. For example, a white male may have more of an advantage in being promoted in a company than an African-American male. These advantages can lead to unequal opportunities and social influence. The privileged include the white, heterosexual male who reinforce and maintain these privileges, allowing these groups to dominate and keep control over resources and decision-making processes. He basically suggests that white males are in control of most corporations and institutions.
In relation to difference, Johnson argues that it is important to recognize and respect the diversity among individuals and communities. Basically, individuals with privilege should be conscious of how other classes, races, or genders might be treated differently. In his book and describes a scenario where you wake up the next day and are a different race or gender asking the question of how this change would affect your relationships or how others would change their views about you. Instead, he suggests being inclusive and having equal opportunities for all, regardless of their social identities.
Johnson's main point is that privilege, power, and difference are essential elements of social structures, and addressing them requires a conscious effort to challenge and break down systems that continue to cause inequality among classes. By understanding and acting against privilege and power, society can work towards more equality and social justice. The way Johnson creates a scenario makes you think about how you would relate to a different identity, makes you think about how you would adapt if you were in a class that was discriminated against. Would we be scared because we like who we are or because we would not want to face the difficulties of a specific social class?
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/culture/a32752175/white-privilege-everyday-examples/
I think you captured the author's main argument very succinctly, Jennifer! Even reading it just now in your words got me thinking back on the list of different privileges that many people (myself included) enjoy each day without even thinking about it. I think that his argument certainly inspires one to look inward and consider how they might be part of the solution, rather than perpetuating the problem. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with Malcom's comment and excellent points made on how as a society, we can progress and head in a more positive direction toward evening out how society supports our social structures rather than break them down. Most progress comes from within and if we all observe, become aware and formulate a plan, then the gap between privilege and difference will become more narrow over time.
ReplyDeleteHey Jennifer!! Your blog perfectly stated the major points of the author. It was actually easier to understand your words as I felt I was reading in circles throughout the article. Thank you for making this text easier to understand.
ReplyDeleteHi Jen! I think your response was very thought-provoking. I like how you said privilege can lead to social influence. I think society teaches us that things can only be a certain way. For example, we are taught that men are physically stronger than women. This is not always the case. You mentioned this reading teaches us about self-awareness. It is important to be aware of where our personal biases lie. Indeed, power, privilege, and power are essential in social structures.
ReplyDeletePriviledge can absloutely lead to social influence and I think thats insightful relevant in the world we live in today
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