This is our third conversation about Ibram X. Kendi’s claim: “The only remedy to past discrimination is present discrimination.” A unique element in this discussion came from Indian American students who considered the claim in light of the British colonization of India.
Present discrimination can only rectify past discrimination if the current disparities that the present discrimination is looking to rectify are actually a consequence of past discrimination. This is the fundamental assumption of the present orthodoxy around identity politics: but for discrimination, we would all be exactly equal. Many people disagree with this fundamental assumption, but it's not acceptable to argue against it.
The 1st speaker (on strongly disagree) makes a good point about how discrimination can create a vicious cycle. It also creates a bad incentive structure that rewards a victim mentality. One other point I haven't seen raised yet in this series is the idea of weighing trade-offs, especially if you go past the issue of affirmative action in university admissions. Say, for example, imposing equity in matters of criminal justice. You may reduce disparities in prison populations, but likely at the expense of public safety.
Present discrimination can only rectify past discrimination if the current disparities that the present discrimination is looking to rectify are actually a consequence of past discrimination. This is the fundamental assumption of the present orthodoxy around identity politics: but for discrimination, we would all be exactly equal. Many people disagree with this fundamental assumption, but it's not acceptable to argue against it.
Very nice. Thoughtful, open conversations.
The 1st speaker (on strongly disagree) makes a good point about how discrimination can create a vicious cycle. It also creates a bad incentive structure that rewards a victim mentality. One other point I haven't seen raised yet in this series is the idea of weighing trade-offs, especially if you go past the issue of affirmative action in university admissions. Say, for example, imposing equity in matters of criminal justice. You may reduce disparities in prison populations, but likely at the expense of public safety.
Remember in the movie The Incredibles? The only thing that could kill the robot was the robot. I'd love to connect.