Introduction
In considering the understanding of privilege, two essays by entirely different people with dissimilar life positions were analyzed. Nevertheless, each of them employs a method of writing definitions tailored to convey their perspective on the concept effectively. Fordgang prefers the general formulation of denying the existence of such an idea, whereas Gay clearly defines its existence but hopes for its dissolution in societal evolution (Kennedy et al.). For this reason, the strengths and weaknesses of this method of reasoning are discussed in each essay to analyze it in detail, and the mixture of academic and personal opinions in the description of privilege, effectively used by both authors, becomes apparent.
Tal Fortgang’s Essay – “Checking My Privilege”
This paper is truly impressive for a man who wrote it at the beginning of his undergraduate education. According to the ideas described, he has thought about the problem before, and his perception differs from the established opinion in the heterogeneous society. His confidence, evidence, and understanding of his heritage can be considered the work’s strengths. Especially in terms of emphasizing the definition as very generalized and inapplicable in most cases, the most extraordinary solidarity can be applied to this particular work.
The strengths of Fortgang’s essay lie in his definition of concepts in response to the notions of his audience. He defines this notion as obstructive and irrelevant: “Check your privilege and realize that nothing you have accomplished is real” (Kennedy et al. 350). In doing so, he broadens his understanding of the term. He encourages readers to consider the various links provided to the definition, citing the personal history of his ancestors who experienced suffering and struggle.
He refutes the prejudice of white male advantage with examples of complex lives and accomplishments. For example, his grandfather escaped Hitler’s occupation and “started a humble wicker basket business with nothing but long hours, an idea, and an iron will” (Kennedy et al. 351). His description and understanding of the hardships faced by his relatives are respectable, without positioning himself as a special or separate individual.
Nevertheless, the work is limited in length and lacks documented factual evidence, a weakness. The essay focuses on the author’s personal experiences and may not provide a comprehensive coverage of the broader aspects of privilege. Apart from the lack of exploration of the impact of various perks on people in miscellaneous contexts, little attention is given to potential counterarguments or alternative views on the issue. For this reason, it could be strengthened by addressing different perspectives and broadening the scope of the study.
Roxane Gay’s Essay – “Peculiar Benefits”
The second author adopts a specific approach to defining privilege, around which the discussion revolves. According to him, the central concept is “a right or immunity granted as a peculiar benefit, advantage, or favor” (Kennedy et al. 357). The paper recognizes some privilege in the author herself, but also discusses why she lacks it. The corresponding approach provides a comprehensive view of the concept, extending beyond a simple definition, and some responsibility is attributed to the author. In critical analysis, it is evident that one must delve into the problems of understanding and accepting one’s situation, encouraging readers to reflect in more detail.
In addition, the apparent weaknesses, as perceived by the authors, include a lack of clarity and specificity regarding their bonuses, as well as the absence of examples illustrating their shortcomings or encounters with imperfections. The general writing is correct and legitimate; however, in the main idea, the author sometimes contradicts himself: “privilege is relative and contextual” (Kennedy et al. 359). This interpretation does not align with the generalization made earlier in the accusation of white men: “they benefit from certain privileges others do not” (Kennedy et al. 358). Thus, it is through such worldviews and condemnation of others that the concept of privilege is understood in the public space. At the same time, its semantic content is minimal and similar to discrimination.
Conclusion
Thus, both essays effectively use the method of writing definitions to convey their views on the topic under discussion. While the choice of writing method depends on the author’s goals, both essays successfully achieve their goals.
Work Cited
Kennedy, X. J., et al. The Brief Bedford Reader. 14th ed., Bedford Books, 2020.