Internalized oppression can lead to low self-esteem and a disregard for people who look like oneself. This belief system is perpetuated by a society that devalues non-white lives. Black life is often considered less valuable, as reflected in lower life expectancies and economic systems. The speaker expresses surprise when some black individuals act as if black life is not valuable. The speaker addresses the interviewer, expressing concern over their approach to influential figures like Obama and Mandela, and asks for a response.
Academic, activist and author Kehinde Andrews is Professor of Black Studies at Birmingham City University. His books include Back to Black: Retelling Black Radicalism for the 21st Century and Resisting Racism: Race, Inequality and the Black Supplementary School Movement. His latest is The Psychosis of Whiteness, which explores why society cannot face up to the racism at its heart and in its history. Andrews says that while we look to self-help books and vote in leaders who do not represent a diverse electorate, society's actions are akin to delusions, irrationalities, hallucinations and what could be described as a psychosis. Joining Andrews in conversation is psychiatrist, broadcaster and author, Femi Oyebode.
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