Steven noticed that the phrase "non-white" was sometimes used as a "politically correct" way of describing persons of color. This started to bug him, because it seemed like what mattered was that the people weren't white, rather than anything in particular about their racial or ethnic group. (And, there are myriad "non-white" races and ethnic groups - it seemed so strange to lump them all into one category.) Which of the following markers of difference best applies to this situation?
A) Difference is connected to power - those in power construct differences.
B) All differences are not created equal - binary systems of difference are characterized by dominant poles.
C) Difference contrasts with and complements what is defined as "normal."
D) Difference is communicatively constructed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The situation is an example of the dominant pole of a binary system of difference (white/non-white) being emphasized and reinforced, while the diversity within the non-white category is ignored or marginalized. This shows that all differences are not created equal and are characterized by dominant poles.

Steven Noticed That the Phrase "Non-White" Was Sometimes Used as a "Politically