Construction, Incorporation, and Maintenance of Racism

To unveil the origins of race means embarking in a journey through time and transformation.

After presenting a historical overview of this issue, we address the personal experience of racism through the eyes of Frantz Fanon and his thought-provoking book “Black skin, white masks” (first published in 1952).

In conclusion, we establish interconnections between the historical backdrop, subjective experiences, and the broader processes stemming from a racialized view of society as exemplified by present-day Brazil. By framing our analysis within this context, we aim to discern who bears responsibility for fighting against racism.

Spoiler Alert:

We do not know whether racism can be eradicated from our society. Examining Brazil as an example, we see how deeply ingrained racial superiority ideals persist today and the interests behind their propagation remain insufficiently exposed.

While education and affirmative policies offer opportunities to combat structural racism, it requires collective efforts and an extraordinary commitment from nations that have benefited most from this social divide.

Good to know:

Some former knowledge of critical race theory and post-colonial studies may help you appreciate the deepest implications on the theme but it is not required to understand the essay.

Course:

Psychology, Essay for ‘What is a critique?’ taught by Rainer Mühlhoff. WT22/23