While reading Johnsons story, Privilege, power, and Difference he is showcasing his argument of power struggles that are in our society. He discusses how factors such as race, gender, and social classes can all vary a persons life experiences. Johnson points out that the only way to truly work towards a solution for these injustices would be to rewire how we react to being told we have a privilege. We often times take being told we're privileged as an attack, needing to defend ourselves. Rather than taking it as a personal attack, Johnson is more so drawing attention to the fact that, yes, in order for someone to have a privilege, it is often at the expense of others. He argues that having privilege isn't wrong, but the issue lies more with not understanding that you have it in the first place.
It is often pushed in this story the idea of denying privilege in turn invalidates those who are disadvantaged. There is emphasis on what is 'standard' and how that has an impact on what is seen as privilege. In comparison to the SCWAAMP reading, it is questioned how maleness and also whiteness is valued in our culture. Johnson, similarly explains how he understands that he has certain protections due to being a white male. An anecdote that he shares is an experience he had with his friend, an African American Woman. He explains how if he was to go into a store he would likely be helped sooner than her, or that he wouldn't be questioned if he was to write a check as much as she would. Seeing how he fits these ideals based solely off of appearance, he explains that it does in fact give him a privilege, while she would be the disadvantaged group. Even with this, there is still a feeling of guilt and struggle to bring up the issues at hand. He stresses how her misfortune is in a way directly connected to his fortunes.
While it is important to understand when you have a certain privilege, it is also important to acknowledge that just because somebody obtains one privilege, doesn't mean that the possess all of them. Personally, I can look at the SCWAAMP reading and see how there are some standards and values that I do have. Being straight, white and American are all advantages that I can say I was born into. However, there are still disadvantages that I could have, one being a woman. Even though that value doesn't apply to me, it doesn't take away the privileges that I do have.
Seeing how Johnson describes his own experiences and point of view on privilege and power, it emphasizes the need to let go of lingering guilt and defensiveness that comes with having a privilege. Being able to do so is the most crucial step in being able to actually equalize power. While it can be a difficult conversation, it is essential to discuss it in a manner that will push people to be more understanding and motivated towards this change.
Here is an example of a cultural diversity wheel and all of the different facts that can go into ones individuality. Any of these factors can be perceived as being a privilege or disadvantage, some individuals may obtain more of these factors than others.
This is an article that briefly discusses the ways to talk about having privileges and additionally, unfamiliar practices that I found to be interesting that gave people privilege.
This analysis of Johnson's Privilege, Power, and Difference really resonates with me. You highlight his key point that recognizing privilege shouldn’t be seen as a personal attack, but as a chance for growth. It’s insightful how you connect this to SCWAAMP, emphasizing that privilege can be nuanced; while some advantages exist, everyone faces unique challenges.
ReplyDeleteI also appreciate your point about the common struggle with guilt over privilege. Understanding it can lead to more meaningful conversations about equality. Letting go of defensiveness is essential for fostering genuine dialogue, and your reflections show why this discussion is so important. Thanks for sharing these thoughtful insights!