Studies in progressive ignorance...

[bliss_eternal]

Why do the same group of people on DU respond every time a poster asks if something is racist?

And why is it that MOST if not all of those that do, are not members of or frequent posters on any of the racial subgroups?

What makes any of these people think they are such "experts" on what should or should not be construed as racist? They respond to such threads with such AUTHORITY, as if they KNOW what can be construed as racial discrimination on any level. Reading such threads gets downright laughable, when those responding with the most assuredness seem the most clueless (to me at least).

The other funny aspect is the response when anyone suggests someone is being insensitive in any way. The mere suggestion sends them into the "how dare you call me racist..." rant, without fail. :wtf:

All it makes me think is, "....Um,...why do you need to respond to every thread like this? Has someone in your world accused you of being racist before...?" I guess it never occurs to them that they are telling on themselves in a big way with their responses.

[bliss_eternal]

1. Just wanted to add--

being a member of a minority group also does not make one an authority, per say of what constitutes racism. BUT, I would take opinions of what does from a minority group member of a Caucasian any day of the week.

I had a African American friend that used to tell racist jokes in mixed company (yes, in front of whites). Unfortunately, she just didn't know any better. Someone like this would indeed be a poor judge of what could be construed as racist.

[kitkatrose]

2. Probably why the similar contingents of people

show up on any (potentially) divisive issue such as women's rights, glbt rights, immigration, religion, conspiracy theories, etc. One reason could be that they are generally interested in these topics and like to post and explore ideas. The other (that I can think of) reason is that they want to derail a topic, or feel a need to be right/superior than other people.

And why is it that MOST if not all of those that do, are not members of or frequent posters on any of the racial subgroups?

Well that would call for broadening their horizons, or at least having an open mind to different viewpoints.

The other funny aspect is the response when anyone suggests someone is being insensitive in any way. The mere suggestion sends them into the "how dare you call me racist..." rant, without fail.

Sounds like the 'bitch' threads to me, which were a really shitty time. :scared: I don't think I've seen an equivalent on other boards.

[bliss_eternal]

5. Your point is how I got so caught up in the cycle

I thought (in the beginning) that this board was filled with those open to ideas, thoughts and learning about others. So if I saw stereotypes being perpetuated I offered other perspectives and corrections.

It took a while, but I learned (the hard way) that most didn't give a damn about learning another perspective. They care about arguing, being right and looking like verbal warrior studs on an internet board.

So NOT worth the time or trouble.
:hi:

[kwassa]

3. I know what you are saying ...

They don't see their own behavior, and then come back to be re-assured by some other white liberals who also don't see the behavior that they are o.k. and not racist people. They probabaly aren't racist, but are clueless and not particularly willing to learn. It is more like racial insensitivity.

They are also very resistant to having their behavior pointed out to them, or actually any positive suggestion.

Those that chime in clearly have some anger about racial issues. Just my opinion.

[bliss_eternal]

4. Excellent point...

and accurate assessment. I think "racial insenstivity" is an appropriate moniker for a great deal of this sort of thing on DU. Sadly, most aren't even up to seeing that they are exhibiting such behaviour on any level.

I've been flamed for pointing out that something doesn't apply to ALL of any race. Yet those correcting me and getting the most upset tend to not be within the demographic in question. What they base their alleged facts and knowledge on is beyond me...

:shrug:

It really pisses me off that so many blanketed, divisive, stereotypes can be written on this board without any level of correction, deletion, etc. by the mods/admins.

Alert doesn't do a damn bit of good anymore.

[Karenina]

6. Two words

Protection.Society.