Virtue in an Age of Identity Politics
A Stoic Approach to Social Justice
Abstract
Virtue in an Age of Identity Politics: A Stoic Approach to Social Justice proffers Stoicism as a more constructive approach to social justice activism than Critical Social Justice, the current core framework for social justice activism in the 21st-century. Critical Social Justice examines ideologies that underlie the stratification of society in ways that confer ongoing benefits to some groups at the expense of other groups and aims for a radical reshaping of prevailing institutions because they purportedly, and irredeemably, underlie a set of norms, beliefs, and attitudes which will continue to perpetuate social inequalities if we do not undertake efforts to rethink, disrupt, and restructure society. Stoicism, the ancient Greek and Roman philosophy, is chosen specifically to help navigate the contentious discourse on “systemic” power and privilege which dominates the Critical Social Justice paradigm. In emphasizing intent over impact, as well as the distinction between the circumstances of our lives and the living of our lives, the Stoic approach highlights the vital importance of reason and virtue in achieving a connection between the individualistic concern with cultivation of a good character and the collective concern with making the world a better place.
Schlagworte
activism social inequality victim mindset victimhood culture virtue ethics virtue signaling white privilege whiteness studies performative activism philosophy of activism systemtic racism radical pedagogy multicultural education intersectionality diversity diversity activism critical pedagogy critical race theory critical social justice critical theory intent vs impact ethics- 129–132 Conclusion 129–132
- 133–136 Selected References 133–136
- 137–146 Index 137–146
- 147–148 About the Author 147–148