Anderson makes a very crucial point in her article from The Atlantic on how the myth of meritocracy actually causes a harm to children of color. The fundamental tenet of meritocracy is that if you put in the effort, you'll achieve, and everything will be just and equal. However, wait! Anderson makes mention of this recent investigation that was printed in the journal Child Development, and guess what? It was discovered that during middle school, marginalized adolescents who adhere to the meritocracy face a decline in self-esteem and begin exhibiting riskier behaviors.
Here's the thing: It's a huge blow to youngsters of color's self-worth when they understand that the system is biased against them and that they experience prejudice and unfair treatment simply because of their race. They begin blaming themselves for events that are entirely beyond their control, which seriously undermines their confidence. It follows that it is understandable why they end up taking more chances and acting in ways that may not be healthy for them.
When Anderson discusses the concept known as the “system justification”, it is essentially when people defend the social structures in an effort to make everything seem fair and legit. In a situation of meritocracy, this merely serves to support the notion that everyone has an equal chance to succeed only by one’s self, like personal effort.
So basically if educating students about critical race theory, it helps better their skills and information to help the successfully adjust to their environment. It gives people more self awareness and motivates them to fight for Justice, by opening society to a more egalitarian and inclusive society.
Comments