Privilege, Power and Difference
by: Allan G. Johnson 

Talking Point # 1

The question:  "Why can't we all just get along?",  reflects the long history of racism in the United States.  What seems to be a very simple question has an in depth answer that involves the differences in human nature and fear of the unfamiliar.  The way we think about the unknown is learned, it is not innate. The purpose of the theoretical framework that Johnson uses is to change the way that we think so we can change how we act. By changing how we participate in the world, the world will change. Issues of race, gender, sexual orientation and class shape our worlds in very different ways. It is up to all of us to take responsibility and be an active part of the solution. 

Talking Point # 2

The "diversity wheel" by Loden and Rosener is based on six main social characteristics:  age, race, ethnicity, gender, physical ability, qualities and sexual orientation.  In terms of the wheel, I am a heterosexual, 53 year old, white, female of German, Irish and Italian descent. I am 5'8" tall, overweight with hazel eyes. The outer hub of the wheel includes:  religion, marital status, education, occupation and income. I am Roman Catholic, married and have two daughters.  I am a middle class professional with a BS in nursing pursuing a certification as a school nurse and a potential MS in public health or education.  I have been a nurse for 32 years. My life would be drastically changed if any of these characteristics shifted. For example:  a divorce or loss of job would have a profound impact on my life. 

Talking Point # 3

Privilege, according to McIntosh, exists when one group has something of value that is denied to others simply because of the group they belong to, not because of anything they have done or failed to do. McIntosh defines two types of privileges:  unearned advantage and conferred dominance. An unearned advantage is described as something as simple as feeling safe in a public space while a conferred dominance gives power of one group over another. The flip side of privilege is oppression.

Argument Statement:

The author, Johnson, argues that although he is a white, middle class, straight male, he can bring his experiences to deal and write about the subjects of racism, sexism, differences and privilege.