Critically Conscious Research- blog 1

11.5.12

Critically Conscious Research is an interesting book that attempts to bring attention to social justice and how our biases can compromise us. The book brings philosophers in and explores their opinions in different ways. The philosopher Kant maintains that self-awareness is key to developing knowledge. How we are aware of ourselves in situations, especially involving research, affects the outcomes of experiments. I agree with Kant’s theories, which are related to self-awareness. It is true that science cannot explain the human condition in its entirety.

One of the most moving examples of the book is on page 5: “What makes a person critically conscious is challenging the underlying assumptions that work in the internal and external worlds to privilege some while disprivileging others” (CCR). This quote puts me on the defensive side and has invoked an emotional response. The way to become critically conscious is not accomplished by observing other people/situations (etc.) buy by adjusting yourself to life’s challenges. For example, we can observe the relationship between the community and the police. There are groups present that fear discrimination due to the color of their skin. Police may stereotype certain individuals, but the community sometimes shields their “friends” who may be criminals. Situations, not people, is where we can “adapt” our roles. Police departments around the globe need the help of community, but if the perception that discrimination may occur, this makes the situation more difficult, even dangerous. Both sides of the situation require independent thought, which restores balance.

I do not challenge oppression that exists in our world. I study it and protect my values while surviving the situation, because it will pass. A major drawback of this book is that it highlights how different we all are from one another, which can effectively divide us. The use of specific “cards” greatly weakens our resolve because we are acknowledging this division. The military focuses on the outcome of the mission, not the status of the individual. It is important to recognize biases to become more self-aware of your situation, but it is easy for the oppressed people to become oppressors. A good solution for us as human beings is not to focus on what makes us different. We all bleed the same blood.