Johnson-Chapter 2

In chapter two of Privilege, Power, And Difference, Allan Johnson concludes that privilege is being socially constructed in our society based on specific groups one belongs to. Johnson argues that these privileged groups are based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, and disability status.

Johnson begins chapter two by stating that difference is not the problem, but rather the socially constructed privilege and oppression that coincide with it. He supports this with facts of the Native Americans and children. These groups were not afraid of difference until they learned to be afraid. In fact, they were actually curious and drawn towards difference. Johnson then goes on to discuss just how to identify differences within society with the “diversity wheel” located on page 15. The six most important categories are age, race, ethnicity, gender, physical ability, and sexual orientation. These groups have been socially constructed and affect how we are perceived and treated in society. These perceptions and treatments are based on the group the person is associated with rather that the person himself. Johnson argues that these categories are used to “include, exclude, reward or punish, credit or discredit, elevate or oppress, value or devalue, leave alone or harass” (16). Johnson then states just how difference is socially constructed. Before being socially defined, these groups mean nothing. He then moves on to different types of privileges and gives examples of privilege in everyday life. Next, Johnson presents paradoxes associated with privilege. He argues that just because an individual isn’t happy or doesn’t feel privileged, doesn’t mean that the person isn’t privileged. Johnson addresses oppression at the end of the chapter. He states that for every socially privileged category there are also other categories that are being oppressed.

Are there other factors affecting some of the everyday life examples of privilege that Johnson presents? I believe there are, especially with the example of women paying more for a new or used car. Does Johnson believe that the only reason for this is because of female oppression? How about other characteristics of men and women that are very much different such as the knowledge they posses on cars and their ability or willingness to negotiate? I believe these to be much more important factors determining this everyday occurrence. Usually men posses more knowledge of cars and therefore know how much a particular car is worth whereas a woman may not. Also, men are far more likely to negotiate the price than women are. Perhaps these are more important factors that help explain this trend.

Overall, I feel as if the chapter is an accurate account of what is occurring in our society today. I agree with the fact that certain groups are privileged while other groups are oppressed. I found the everyday life examples to be especially helpful. I do, however, believe that factors other than privilege affect some of these occurrences.