Question

What are the consequences of a view that holds that racism is primarily a matter of institutions and ideology (patterns of belief that support existing power dynamics of social heirarchy) as per Shelby rather than a view that racism is primarily a matter of individual affect, feeling, or ill will as per Garcia?

Questions to think about: Can we really get around with a view that racism isn't necessarily an intentional or hurtful moral failing as an individual? Should we? If racism is ideological and institutional, is "reverse racism" possible against, e.g, white people by minorities? What is the relationship between the Shelby/Garcia debate here and Manne's understanding of misogynyy

Answer 1

One consequence of the view that racism is primarily a matter of institutions and ideology is that it potentially shifts the focus away from individual responsibility for perpetuating racism. This view recognizes that individuals are not solely responsible for producing racial inequalities, but rather that social structures and cultural attitudes play a significant role in their perpetuation. This approach also recognizes that even well-intentioned individuals can contribute to racist structures and attitudes.

On the other hand, Garcia’s view that racism is primarily a matter of individual affect or ill will puts the responsibility squarely on individuals to not hold racist views or act in racist ways. This view implies that racism is a moral failing and that individuals are solely responsible for their racist behavior.

While it is important to hold individuals accountable for their actions and beliefs, the institutional and ideological view of racism helps to acknowledge and address the broader structural and cultural issues that contribute to racism. This approach can help to create systemic change and address root causes of inequality.

Furthermore, if racism is primarily institutional and ideological, then “reverse racism” against white people by minorities is not possible because social hierarchies cannot be reversed in a way that privileges historically oppressed groups over the dominant group. Rather, efforts to achieve equity and justice through policies that address past and present discrimination are necessary.

The Shelby/Garcia debate on racism can be related to Manne’s understanding of misogyny as a systemic and institutional issue rather than just an individual one. Manne argues that misogyny is not just about individual men’s attitudes and behavior towards women, but also about the systemic way in which women are devalued and excluded from positions of power and influence. Both perspectives emphasize the importance of addressing systemic issues and not solely blaming individuals for perpetuating inequality.