Privilege, Power, and Difference

Johnson discusses how social categorizations such as race, gender, class, and disability not only shape individual and collective identities but also fundamentally impact individual experiences through systemic privileges and oppressions. He argues that these categorizations are not merely descriptors of biological or physical differences, but are instead deeply-entrenched societal constructs that perpetuate inequality and influence every aspect of life.

Johnson's exploration begins by emphasizing that social identities are constructed—that is, defined by societal norms rather than inherent differences. He explicates, “most of what we experience as 'real' is a cultural creation” (17), illustrating that identities such as race, gender, and disability are infused with social meanings that shape interactions and perceptions within society.

A significant portion of Johnson’s analysis is dedicated to understanding disability beyond physical limitations, presenting it as a social construct heavily influenced by societal perceptions and structures. He points out the “normalcy bias” towards nondisabled individuals, which marginalizes those with disabilities, exemplifying this through societal infrastructure and language that often portrays individuals with disabilities as less capable or inferior. This portrayal not only affects personal identity but also limits opportunities in social, professional, and public domains.

Delving into the systemic implications, Johnson discusses how these social constructions are not benign but are instrumental in distributing power and privilege within society. He introduces the concept of “matrix of domination” (51), which illustrates how various axes of identity (race, gender, class, etc.) intersect to enhance or mitigate the effects of privilege. This intersectionality is crucial in understanding the compound effects of social categorizations, illustrating that no single category fully defines an individual's experience but that their overlap can significantly alter one’s access to resources and power.

One of Johnson’s central ideas is the invisibility of privilege to those who benefit from it. He explores this through the lens of “unearned entitlement,” which are benefits that all should have but which are only accessible to some due to societal structures. This phenomenon also highlights how individuals can unknowingly participate in oppressive systems. Johnson stresses that the challenge is recognizing these privileges. He writes, for example, that “[w]hites are less likely than blacks to be arrested; once arrested, they are less likely to be convicted” (25), pointing to systemic racial biases that benefit one group over another without their active engagement.

Finally, Johnson insists that understanding and dismantling these categorizations and their effects requires both individual and collective efforts. He criticizes the pervasive individualism in society, which obfuscates systemic issues and promotes a blame culture that hinders effective solutions to social injustices.

As an alternative, he argues for a shift from individual blame to collective responsibility, advocating for awareness and actions that challenge and change oppressive systems. His argument thus moves beyond academic discourse, aiming to inspire real-world changes that acknowledge and address the systemic roots of social disparities.