“Privilege, Power and Difference” By Alan Johnson.

 

 “Privilege, Power and Difference” By Alan Johnson.

February 03, 2025

Our reading this week was: “Privilege, Power and Difference” By Alan Johnson. This reading about the differences people face, privilege and power people hold.

    The author's main argument is about recognizing and transforming our views on societal differences. He explains, "My purpose in this book is to articulate that understanding in ways that are clear and compelling and, above all, useful" (vii). The aim is for everyone to understand societal differences in a new light to create change. Additionally, the author states, "The purpose is to change how we think so that we can change how we act, and by changing how we participate in the world, become part of the complex dynamic through which the world itself will change" (viii). He stresses the importance of a new way of thinking to identify the root causes of societal issues. Everyone must take responsibility for social issues related to gender, race, social class, sexual orientation, etc., regardless of their perspective.

    The author seeks to raise awareness by acknowledging that everyone is part of the problem, no matter their race, gender, social class, sexual orientation, etc. Even those not directly affected by these issues contribute to the problem simply by the issue's existence. If certain groups didn't exist, there would be no one to be different from. For instance, if there were no white, straight, wealthy men, there would be no issue for black, gay, poor women, as there would be no basis for comparison, hence no conflict or indifference.

    In summary, the author’s main point is to encourage everyone to recognize societal issues and work toward change, no matter their position.

Some quotes that stood out to me were:

"Everything that’s done to receive or maintain it.... results in suffering and deprivation for someone."

Privilege comes at a cost, many people don't realize they are privileged.

"The existence of privilege and the lopsided distribution of power that keeps it going."

Many think that people being different is the problem, but they don't see how differences are a good thing and they only see it as a bad thing.

 “All of us are part of the problem. There is no way to avoid that as long as we live in the world. But we could also make ourselves part of the solution if only we knew how.”

This quote really adresses everything that Johnson was talking about.