Final answer:
Nell Irvin Painter, in 'The History of White People,' suggests that white people often see themselves primarily as individuals, overlooking the racial and ethnic influences on their identity and experiences, as well as the systemic advantages of white privilege that accompany their dominant social position.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Nell Irvin Painter, author of The History of White People, white people typically just see themselves as "individuals". This observation aligns with the broader themes in Painter's work, which outlines how the definition and perception of Whiteness have evolved over time. Her book discusses how certain ethnicities were not considered White but became included in the White identity, as Whiteness has often been linked with power and proximity to power. It also examines the complexity and fluidity of racial categories, emphasizing the constructed nature of race and ethnicity and how this shapes social dynamics and individual self-perception.
White privilege is another critical concept described in the context of White identity. This term refers to the benefits people receive by being White or being perceived to be White. It points to an institutional condition rather than a personal trait and highlights how the dominant racial group may often overlook the advantages they have due to their race.
It is also noted that being part of the ethnic majority, for example, White British in the United Kingdom, may not make individuals perceive their ethnicity as influential on their lives. However, this can have a profound impact on their political socialization and perceptions of government and policy, often mistakenly assuming that what benefits them will benefit everyone.