Mcintosh's 'Invisible Knapsack': Article Analysis

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Recommended: Female representations in the media

McIntosh’s article describes a systematic unearned advantage and conferred dominance that has its roots in our society and systems that feed into white males having the advantage. The only way to eradicate discrimination of gender and race is to open the eyes of society at large. There are invisible rules that fill up the “invisible knapsack” that equip the white privileged individual as to how to survive and promote.
The article begins with the author’s reflections on male privilege; she then transitions into her personal reflections on its implications in race relations. After outlining several characteristics of white privilege, she communicates numerous examples of white privilege. For example, McIntosh states that she can turn on the …show more content…

A small number of people will openly admit racist viewpoints, but everyone with fair skin should at least admit that they have a privilege and consider abandoning that opportunity.
One way to help combat white privilege is to be a supporter and speak up. Part of the privilege that whites have is that people will listen to you when you talk about this subject. People of all ethnic groups continually fight against white privilege. Another way to battle white privilege is to join a group fighting racial discrimination and oppression. This can help build racial coalitions and lend support to disregarded groups speaking out about the racism they experience. Only by speaking and participating in discussions about racial domination and white privilege can we choke out the effects of racism.
Media personalities can lead in the breaking down of racial stereotypes. Racial identity may be an important factor for people, but perpetuating negative stereotypes does not break down walls. If media personalities such as TV and movie stars and respected news anchors and talk show hosts begin to address issues of white privilege, the masses will learn about the issues. This will allow us, as a society, to effectively deal with the problem of racism. In other words, if widespread media and educators join forces, then those in power will be pressed to focus on their method of management, and

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