Aversive racism or not?

Question

I was listening to NPR and there was a woman who was asked if she liked Obama. She said he was a very impressive speaker. and she really liked his message, and felt that there needed to be a change in Washington. But she said she wasn't sure if she was going to actually vote for him because she didn't think a Black man could be elected president.

So what she is saying is, because everybody else is racist, she has to vote along with the racist?

Is this aversive racism? or just plain racism?

Robert shelton - the price of crack is still 5 dollars and white hookers are free.

numez - Im not voting for Obama. So fall back.

brkshnd ... - I meant "aversive."
I spelled it right. Maybe you should google it.

Answer 1

It really is difficult to say.

It's possible that she may not approve of racism but is simply conforming to what she believes is the norm (not voting for black politicians), in which case she is knowingly supporting racism.

Another possibility is that she IS racist and that the above (claiming to think that a black man couldn't be elected as president) is merely her justification for discriminatory behavior.

Either way, her decision is at least somewhat racially motivated even if she is well-intentioned. She may very well view us all as equals and make a conscious effort to behave in a non-discriminatory manner. If this is the case then it's possible that she truly believes that a black man has no chance in hell of being elected and simply wishes to better ensure that who she regards as "the next best choice" wins the presidency. Of course, if this is her thinking, she is still supporting racism (albeit perhaps unknowingly).

Either way, race is an issue with this woman. If she is well-intentioned, I hope someone educates her on how to move beyond being racially influenced/motivated.

Answer 2

Perhaps to the extent that whites are the majority in this country, yes. But, I would like these to see these studies done with other cultures and races as well. It's not just white people who are more comfortable with their own race and culture, it's every race and culture that is that way. I was born and raised in Miami, fl. I'm also white, and there aren't too many of us. I felt very discriminated against in many situations, maybe not overtly such as the article stated, but subtlety. When I began dating my husband Carlos, his parents were not thrilled with me. They would never say anything openly about it to me or him, but they mentioned to relatives that they thought it was odd that with so many wonderful Hispanic, Catholic girls around they couldn't understand why he had chosen me to date. They, like everyone else usually, expect you to stick with "your own." At family events, everyone speaks Spanish instead of English (when they all know English) and I just end up sitting in front of the TV watching what ever is on because I'm left out. It's caused me to start avoiding his family gatherings. Anyway, to answer your question. It is true that white people are the majority in this country, and that other races and distinct cultures are going to encounter this "aversive racism" more than white people. But, I believe that anywhere in the world a person is a minority they are going to face the same challenges.

Answer 3

I don't think it is racism at all.

I think it is dismay at our American political machine. Many of us are just tired of voting for change and we go to the polls just to see those that benefit from the status quo overrule our votes.

The best example I have of this is in Michigan. Our governor came in and raised taxes and fees, plunging our economy even deeper into destruction. Nearly every Michigan resident saw their quality of life plummet in her first term. So what do we do, vote her back into office. Now, we are on the verge of financial collapse and the politicians decide to raise taxes and fees again, while making none of the tough choices that could eventually fix this mess.

My vote was canceled by the union members and welfare collectors that would not vote for change, they are happy with the way things are.

So, I really think that the lady you heard is not racist in the least, just deeply discouraged. As voting seems to have become more choosing the least, most electable evil, over the best candidate you believe in. Anything else and you truly have thrown your vote away. Just like I did.

Answer 4

I was just having this discussion with someone yesterday. I love Obama. He's intelligent, articulate (unlike Bush) and charismatic. I just don't know if he's electable because he's black. I don't know if Hillary can be elected because she's a woman. If the democrats don't put up someone who the farmers in Iowa will vote for, we'll lose to the republicans again (no offense intended to the farmers in Iowa), but you get my point. It's like when people voted for Ralph Nader. They might as well have not voted because those votes took away votes from the democrats, which made the vote close enough to steal. I hope you understand my point. I think we might have to wait for another generation. I don't like it any more than you do. We need to get someone in first, THEN work on change.

Answer 5

It's a racist fear. I confronted this same issue on another forum. I suppose I would say of the two it would be aversive racism, since racism would be defined as intolerance or hatred of a certain race.

Race and racism are things that are constantly around us, though we may not have feelings of ethnocentrism or racism this kind of fear can still bury itself in our psyche and it does contribute to the problem of racism.

Answer 6

wow yet one more term for it, will wonders never cease *sigh* you wacky americans and your linguistics. from what i've read it does seem that way though. personally i'd vote for the fella in as much as i think he is lacking in experience you can't do much worse then the mushroom you have in office now. you guys should get the same system that we do, if you don't like any of them just put in a "no vote" that means if they get enough of them they actually have to go and find more parties, let me tell you that there are some mighty interesting political stand points out there at the bottom of the barrel

Answer 7

I don't think that she was being racist. She was just stating the facts as she sees them and she's probably right. In this election, it's all about party lines and people are going to vote for the person they think are electable not, necessarily, who's best for the job or who they think is best for the job.

Answer 8

I don't think its plain racism.......maybe a little pessimistic but who could blame her? I don't think Obama is ready, for the simple fact his track record isn't long enough(as a senator). I think whatever woman or black man that decides to be the "1st" better make sure they have been put thru the fire twice over. Bc you better believe the first sec. something goes wrong, there's going to be a gang of ppl going, "See what happens when you put a (_________) in office". They won't tolerate the mistakes or buffoonery from them the way they do "W".

Answer 9

That isn't plain racism, & I've never heard the term aversive racism. It doesn't matter either way. Hillary Clinton is going to get the Democrat's nomination for president.

Answer 10

It seems like she had confidence in his abilities but feared not enough Americans shared her views because they could not see past his skin color... very sad. I think it's a common practice among many voters in America. They may see someone they like who is running, but instead of voting for this person, they will vote for lesser of the two most popular evils.