Racism is an all to common discussion that takes place in America these days, and it is not without reason. Racism is something that has been a problem in this country for centuries, and though some believe the problem is all but erased in the modern day, the issue still persists. According to activist Time Wise, "Racism is an ideology that says certain people, by virtue of their race, are either inferior or superior to others of a different race, and with race usually being defined by skin color." (Cook, 4). As Americans, this definition seems very fitting. For years, and even in certain places today, people of certain races are denied luxuries that are given to some whites.
This advantage given to whites is also known as "white privilege." Tim Wise again describes this as "any advantage, head start, or protection the system grants whites but not people of color. It's the flip side of discrimination." (Cook, 4). This is something we see all the time in America. For example, if people of color are discriminated against for something such as jobs or housing, that provides that many more opportunities for whites.
This "white privilege" that Time Wise explalins throughout this interview is, I dare say, something that effects my life. Often times, as Wise says, "We have tobe honest with ourselves and realize that we're conditned tohvecertain reactions, andthat doesn't make us bad people, as long as we catch ourselves." (Cook, 12). In this instance he's talking about the racist tendencies that we sometimes have towards others. It's something we're all guilty of, but s long as we make the effort to train ourselves, and stop these tendencies, there's no reason racism cannot be greatly reduced to the point of being a non-issue.
Works Cited:
"By The Color of Their Skin: Time Wise on the Myth of a Postracial America." Interview by David Cook. The Sun July 2009: 4-12. Print.
This advantage given to whites is also known as "white privilege." Tim Wise again describes this as "any advantage, head start, or protection the system grants whites but not people of color. It's the flip side of discrimination." (Cook, 4). This is something we see all the time in America. For example, if people of color are discriminated against for something such as jobs or housing, that provides that many more opportunities for whites.
This "white privilege" that Time Wise explalins throughout this interview is, I dare say, something that effects my life. Often times, as Wise says, "We have tobe honest with ourselves and realize that we're conditned tohvecertain reactions, andthat doesn't make us bad people, as long as we catch ourselves." (Cook, 12). In this instance he's talking about the racist tendencies that we sometimes have towards others. It's something we're all guilty of, but s long as we make the effort to train ourselves, and stop these tendencies, there's no reason racism cannot be greatly reduced to the point of being a non-issue.
Works Cited:
"By The Color of Their Skin: Time Wise on the Myth of a Postracial America." Interview by David Cook. The Sun July 2009: 4-12. Print.
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