Allan G. Johnson: Privilege, Power, and Difference
Biography : Allan G. Johnson is a nonfiction author, novelist, sociologist, public speaker, and workshop presenter who has devoted most of his working life to understanding the human condition, especially in relation to issues of social justice rooted in gender, race, and social class. He has spoken at more than 200 universities, colleges, corporations, and other organizations in 39 states. He wrote What Can We Do? which we read in class.
JOHNSON’S THEORY:
Johnson argues that it is important to talk explicitly about issues of privilege, power and difference. By doing this, it will make it a better world. We have to learn to say the words.
JOHNSON SAYS:
“We can't just stop using words like racism, sexism, and privilege, however, because these are tools that focus our awareness on the problem and all the forms it takes. Once we can see and talk about what's going on, we can analyze how it works as a system” (138). By saying the words and talking about the issues directly, we will be better teachers. Instead of avoiding the issue at hand, we are aware of it. We are able to openly speak about issues and experiences with our students by listening to Johnson. Johnson also reminded us of McIntosh because if we talk about the issues about privilege, power and difference; we are able to see McIntosh's point. McIntosh says that we have to recognize race in our culture, especially whiteness and the privileges that come along with this. Therefore, Johnson and McIntosh go hand in hand.
JOHNSON’S THEORY:
Johnson argues that it is important to talk explicitly about issues of privilege, power and difference. By doing this, it will make it a better world. We have to learn to say the words.
JOHNSON SAYS:
“We can't just stop using words like racism, sexism, and privilege, however, because these are tools that focus our awareness on the problem and all the forms it takes. Once we can see and talk about what's going on, we can analyze how it works as a system” (138). By saying the words and talking about the issues directly, we will be better teachers. Instead of avoiding the issue at hand, we are aware of it. We are able to openly speak about issues and experiences with our students by listening to Johnson. Johnson also reminded us of McIntosh because if we talk about the issues about privilege, power and difference; we are able to see McIntosh's point. McIntosh says that we have to recognize race in our culture, especially whiteness and the privileges that come along with this. Therefore, Johnson and McIntosh go hand in hand.