Making Sense with Sam Harris #182 — Unlearning Race
Jan 23, 2020
Thomas Chatterton Williams, a thought-provoking author known for his works on race and identity, dives deep into the complexities surrounding racial constructs. He shares insights from his interracial upbringing, highlighting the challenges of navigating identity in a racially charged society. The discussion critiques the obsession with racial identities and advocates for authentic human connections. Williams emphasizes the fluidity of race as a social construct and envisions a future where racial distinctions become less significant, fostering a truly post-racial society.
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Growing Up Black
- Thomas Chatterton Williams grew up in a mixed-race household but identified as Black.
- His parents emphasized embracing Black identity due to societal perceptions and his father's background in the segregated South.
Shifting Perceptions of Race
- Williams believes the "one-drop rule" is fading, with mixed-race identities becoming more common.
- He questions whether his children, appearing white, would have been considered Black in his childhood context.
Daughter's Birth Challenges Views
- Williams previously believed mixed-race individuals should identify with the historically oppressed group.
- His daughter's birth challenged his views on race due to her fair appearance.
