Whiteness as a Social Construction

Paper Summary:

This paper shows how the study of Whiteness is fraught with controversy. It explains that while many theorists confuse Whiteness studies with studies on racism, other theorists believe Whiteness is a social reconstruction. This paper explores the idea of Whiteness being a social reconstruction. Whiteness privileges are identified as well as characteristics of Whiteness that allows it to continue to survive in an era where political correctness and affirmative action are present in people s minds. Examples of whiteness in different life areas are examined and me too ism as a defense and reaction on the part of white people are investigated.
Abstract
Body
Introduction
Whiteness Privileges
Whiteness as the Norm
Whiteness as a Non Race
Paradoxes of Whiteness
History of Domination
Problems of Whiteness Studies
"Me too ism"
Conclusion
References
Endnotes

From the Paper:

"Whiteness is a value system that privileges certain people. Whiteness privileges itself as the standard in humanity. It is not primarily about race. One major privilege of Whiteness is the seditious avoidance of responsibility even though it may be painted as an acknowledgment of responsibility. An example of this evasion of responsibility was demonstrated by the U.S., the U.K. and European powers at the World Conference Against Racism (WCAR) in South Africa in 2001. South Africa wished to discuss reparations for colonialism and the slave trade during the conference. However, the U.S., the U.K. and the European powers threatened to quit the conference if this discussion were to be allowed on the agenda since they did not believe it had anything to do with the present government administration of their respective countries. While each country expressed their regret at what happened to South Africa at the hands of their predecessors, they believed that the present governments should not be held accountable for previous governments crimes. "

More papers on Whiteness as a Social Construction:

• Persuasive Essay # 104425 : "Social Construction and the Privileged Few"
• Essay # 84882 : "Storytelling and Racism"
• Book Review # 90102 : "'Their Eyes Were Watching God' "

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: