General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: DU ... Just So You Know, It's NOT Our Imagination ... [View all]1StrongBlackMan
(31,849 posts)Just take the words "racism" and "bigotry" ... in the not so distant past, I posted definitions of the terms from writings in peer-reviewed social science journals (with links to the underlying articles/research) that specifically indicate that the distinction between the terms is the cultural/institutional power relationship(s) component, i.e., racial bigotry = negative race-based interaction(s); racism = bigotry + cultural/institution power/support. These articles link(ed) to other articles that, like all academic writings, trace the evolution/refinement of the term to reflect the science's current understanding of the phenomena of racism.
The DU response? ... folks arguing, "Well, that is not what my/the dictionary says", or "That is not how I understand the term", and finally, " I don't care what the state and body of social science research says) I don't accept that ... We're just going to have to agree to disagree." (I can post links to these exact responses, if you wish)
How does one come to a common understanding of terms, when those that most in need to be engaged, refuse to "accept" the state and body of social science research?
I, once, likened it to discussing climate change with conservatives; but, now, I liken it to discussing climate change with coal/oil/gas industry lobbyists/insiders, in that those arguing against the science have an interest in maintaining the definitional status quo. And no amount of science or reason is going to change that.