1. “We are, both individually and collectively, stuck in a kind of paralysis that perpetuates the trouble and its human consequences.”
Johnson is saying everyone plays a part in why social issues like racism and sexism aren't getting better. Even though we know those issues exist we freeze up and avoid doing anything about them.
Why do we get stuck? Is it fear? Guilt? Just being overwhelmed by how huge the problems are?
What would it actually take to recognize these problems in ourselves and start working to fix it?
2. “Her misfortune is connected to my fortune; the reality of her having to deal with racism and sexism every day is connected to the reality that I don’t.”
Johnson is being honest and acknowledging that his privileges as a white man aren’t just his benefits, they’re connected to the disadvantages someone else has.
It made me ask myself what advantages do I have that I don't think about? And who is suffering the disadvantages because of it?
How can we talk about privilege without people shutting down or shutting it out?
3. “Privilege means being able to decide who gets taken seriously, who receives attention, who is accountable to whom and for what.”
Privilege isn’t only money or status it’s also about power. The power to define rules and to decide who is allowed to speak on matters of importance. That’s a lot more than just saying privilege means some people have it easier.
It’s easy to assume the world is fair and that everyone has an equal chance to succeed. But has that ever been true? Is hard work and effort all it takes to get to where you want to be?
How can people with privilege use it for others, instead of continuing the cycle of exploitation?
Argument Statement: This author, Allan G. Johnson, argues that social unfairness comes from privilege, and real change starts when we recognize their role in it.
Aaron, I appreciate your thoughtfulness on this topic. Your argument statement explains Johnson's ideas perfectly.
ReplyDeleteI also blogged about considering your privileges and how they oppress others!
ReplyDeleteAaron, I totally agree we need to critically think why we avoid change. i think a lot of is being overwhelmed and fear the unknown. As humans we usually like to be "comfortable". Very few of us like to step out of our comfort zone.
ReplyDeleteGood way to organize the short blog. Excellent!
ReplyDeleteAaron, I love the graphic that you included on your Blog! I also liked your question about hard work and effort being all you need. Something to think about! :)
ReplyDeleteI agree with much of what you have highlighted here. I am glad that Johnson understand that it has to be addressed. Why it is so taboo to accept this is going on. Why is suffering only acceptable for minorities.
ReplyDeleteDid you think about things you may have privilege in and what was your thoughts after recognizing a privilege.
speaking up can help create change thanks for your thoughts Aaron and your ponderence of your own privilege.
Aaron I loved this graphic that was used. I believe it is a great illustration and visual to depict much of what is expressed in Johnson's article. I was also touched by the question you reflected on that states, "It made me ask myself what advantages do I have that I don't think about? And who is suffering the disadvantages because of it?" You are not only thinking about yourself, but also others that may be effected by what happens in and around you. Very great work!
ReplyDeleteThe graphic is a great visual. Your thoughts and comments were insightful and engaging. Nice job.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with your sentiments. I also like how you set up your blog; it made it easy to understand. It also made me follow the quote, what it means, and what I think mode.
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate how you write using questions. They push me to really wrestle with the concepts you discuss, not just to take them at face value!
ReplyDelete