Oppression, Privilege, and Resistance: Theoretical Perspectives on Racism, Sexism, and Heterosexism

by Lisa M. Heldke, Peg O'Connor

This anthology is based on a distinct theoretical framework that provides coherence and cohesion to the readings included, presenting the phenomena of racism, sexism, heterosexism, and classism as interlocking systems of oppression. Resting upon this oppression model are two sets of theories, one concerned with the phenomenon of privilege--the companion of oppression--and the other with resistance--the response to oppression.

The significant number of readings addressing the different forms that resistance takes are perhaps the most important part of the book for students struggling with the questions "What is being done?" and "What can I do?"

Genres: Feminism, Nonfiction, Social Justice, Queer, Education

791 pages, Paperback

First published December 5, 2003

About the author

Lisa Heldke is a professor of philosophy at Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, Minnesota.

Reviews

[Karla]

I learned so much from this comprehensive volume that it is difficult to fit it into a short review. The book is broken down into different sections. Each section gives you a variety of essays that pertain to the topic at hand, i.e. sexism, racism, heterosexism, etc. Most people think they have a working knowledge of what each of the former headers signifies in our culture, however the essays in this book will challenge even the most astute and culturally sound reader.

The reason I recommend this book so highly is because it will give you a cross-section of many different writers points of views. It will not just be WHF feminist perspective, but you get exposure to a variety of voices. You will read essays from African Americans and Latin Americans and men and women alike; something that is often missing from the average American education.

I could go so far as to say that this book should be compulsory in High School or college. Even if I don't necessarily agree with every perspective given, it opened up my mind and allowed me to see how my point of view is one of many in a vast sea of billions of humans with a variety of experiences and perspectives.

[Jill Nelson]

Awesome textbook, my favorite Sociology professor had us get it at Saint' Mary's. It's out of print, but if you find it on Ebay, buy it! It has a whole range of excerpts and articles from progressive activists. Covers a bunch of "isms" and is perfect for group discussion.

[Gabe Riggs]

Great overview of oppressive regimes.