I had an interesting discussion earlier in the week where we explored the idea of how paradigms are almost akin to a personal lens which change the way we view the world. The idea of “lenses” can be applied to this context in terms of privilege, as it is similar to a paradigm. Our different privileges result in us viewing the world slightly differently. As mentioned in the article, the individual feels that their white privilege is “invisible,” whereas to others who are not subject to the benefits of white privilege, it’s existence is remarkably obvious.
When visiting relatives in India, I often forget that it is unique to have the opportunity to travel abroad to pursue an undergraduate degree. I realised that I had this privilege when one of my cousins said that her “dream” was to be able to study in a country other than India. The wide variety of opportunities at my disposal is a huge privilege which I failed to recognise due to being surrounded by people in the same situation as me. My paradigm was such that I did not realise it was uncommon to have easy access to international education, and I neglected the reality of many others who do not have this privilege.
Thanks Teja; this is simple but important point – that because our paradigms are our lenses, we forget they are there, and this that they are the same for everyone. The privilege you mention is socio-economic, and very real. I guess there are things like simply being able to eg buy books we want, go out for a nice meal…. we do not think of these as privilege but as normal. But they are a result of privilege .
Thank you for this psot
N