Shannon Sullivan explores the intersections of feminist philosophy, critical philosophy of race, American pragmatism, and continental philosophy. Her work investigates how these fields intertwine and shape our understanding of identity, prejudice, and social structures. Sullivan focuses on the transactional nature of bodies, pragmatic approaches to feminism, and revealing the unconscious habits of racial privilege. She critically examines the problem of middle-class white anti-racism and the physiology of sexist and racist oppression.
Some embrace the idea of white privilege as an important concept that helps us to make sense of the connection between race and social and political disadvantages, while others are critical or even hostile. Philosopher Shannon Sullivan cuts through the confusion and cross-talk to challenge what 'everybody knows' about white privilege--
The book advocates for a revised approach to anti-racism specifically tailored for middle-class white individuals. It emphasizes the importance of developing a new ethos that encourages deeper understanding and more effective engagement in combating systemic racism. By exploring the unique position and responsibilities of this demographic, the author calls for a transformative shift in attitudes and actions to create meaningful change in society.
A bold examination of questions about whiteness and race