Privilege, Power & Difference, Johnson

Privilege, Power and Difference, Johnson

Talking Point 1.

I agree with Johnson's assessment that the individuals who enjoy privilege and power do not recognize their role in this problem.   To use his example, white, heterosexual males are not negatively affected by it and therefore it does not enter into their consciousness.  Issues of privilege power and difference are not part of their daily struggle.   In order to bring these issues to the forefront, conversations, albeit uncomfortable, which include words or phrases that evoke feelings of defensiveness or guilt, need to be used more often in order to have meaningful dialogue. 


Talking Point 2. 

Johnson states that the terms that evoke these uncomfortable feelings, the "isms" (sexism, racism, classism, anti-Semitism, etc.) are avoided, thought to be too painful and unpleasant to bring up in day to day conversation.  Rather, terms such as inclusion, tolerance and diversity are selected and often used in sensitivity training in professional settings.  My feeling is that if certain words are avoided, in favor of others, what difference does it make, if the ultimate goal is to create meaningful dialogue and do the work that needs to be done, why not? By making this an issue of vocabulary we are missing an opportunity for growth that must first start by creating a safe place for dialogue. 

Talking Point 3.

The discussion about privilege confused me.  Is it societal or not? Who imposes it? How is it measured  and how can it be addressed?  For every group that is privileged, there is an oppressed group. Privilege is a granted benefit given to one group by other groups? I believe that privilege exists and the consequences of not having the same privilege results in very painful experiences and daily struggles, such as those listed in the examples provided.  After reading this article, Johnson has left me feeling overwhelmed. 

Argument Statement:
The author, Johnson attempts to change behavior of individuals not consciously experiencing the effects of privilege, power or difference to enlighten them on their role in improving the lives of others by naming the problem with terms that will initially evoke defensiveness.