Why I don't think the phrase/argument white privilege is effective.

[delrem]

103. As you say, white privilege absolutely does exist.

The phrase accurately describes reality in North America, in the countries of the former British Empire, and it describes a reality that should be dealt with.

I knew that white privilege existed before ever hearing that exact phrase. I used the phrases "institutionalized racism" and "institutionalized sexism" to get my meaning across. But tomayto tomahto, it still tastes the same.

I'm absolutely against any attempt to eliminate these words and phrases from our vocabulary, from our discussions, because these words and phrases are accurate and pinpoint the global nature of the problem. Someone might *deny* that the problem exists, that's a different thing than agreeing that the problem exists but disallowing the terms necessary for discussing it. I much prefer to deal with an outright denier, than with someone who tries to control the debate by denying the *words* used to describe the issue.

I've seen the technique, controlling the debate by denying the terms used to describe the issue, all over politics. I've seen people laugh at my use of the term "corporatism", in order to eliminate my thoughts, my input, regarding a problem that I know exists. I've seen it in all kinds of cases - and the technique is a favorite of "alpha personalities".