Journal #1

 Alan Johnson argues that because of privilege and difference, we as a society favor some groups at the expense of others. We have self divided into a variety of social groups like gender, wealth/ income, race, level of education, sexual orientation, mobility range, and religion. Even though we are capable of being creative and loving, we do not always pick this path. We ourselves have created this divide promoting fear, discrimination and violence, favoring the oppressor. The oppressor class is characterized as a white wealthy educated heterosexual able-bodied Christian. The privileged group is the dominant and most prominent, along with generational power and wealth. 

Johnson argues that acknowledging and understanding privilege is the first step to putting an end to generational oppression. We need to be more self-aware as a society of our own privilege and those around us. The more we understand, the more we question and make changes. We shouldn't fall victim to ignorance any farther as if this was something out of our hands, even though we were the hands that created this cycle way long ago. In addition, we need to identify what part we personally play in society and identify who we are as social beings. This would ultimately lead to many outcomes. One being developing empathy to gain understanding towards others who may not have the same privileges. This would create inclusive and compassionate attitudes towards those who have a disadvantage. The change we seek starts with self-reflection.