Critical Theory, Postcolonial Theory

Feminist Theory

CRITICAL THEORY

an interdisciplinary social theory oriented toward critiquing and changing society as a whole, in contrast to traditional theory oriented only to

understanding or explaining society from the point of view of the dominant culture.

Underlying AssumptionsThe troubles individuals face are inseparable from the

problems society experiences as a wholeSocial conditions are not the products of either

individuals or society but the transactions between the two

Critical analysis of social problems should be from the standpoint of those experiencing inequities

Positive change is possible at all systemic levels

Goalsdecreasing power of one group over another improving conditions of individuals while bringing about

greater social and economic justice

ColonizationThe maintenance of political, social, economic, and

cultural domination over people for an extended period

Postcolonial TheoryThe relationship between colonized societies and

colonizing European nations since the 2nd WWThe European empire is said to have held sway

over more than 85% of the rest of the globe by the time of the First World War, having consolidated its control over several centuries.

Challenges Imperialism, Eurocentrism

Underlying AssumptionsRacist, imperialist colonial assumptions are still active today

Shape the experience of people of colorExposing and deconstructing these assumptions will remove their

powerNeed to clear space for multiple voicesWhile educational institutions maintain the potential to

emancipate and empower, they often oppress and marginalize.Centrality of experiential knowledgeCultural capital

The sense of group consciousness and cultural identity that protects individuals and the group

FlightHow might Flight be viewed as political commentary? How might Zits’ life experiences be reflective of the

postcolonial relationship between Native Peoples and the US mainstream?

How did the lack of access to cultural capital impact Zits perspective and behavior?

How were romantic myths projected onto Native Peoples risk factors for Zits?

How does historical trauma play out in Zits’ life?

AlexieI get backlash all the time, for all sorts of reasons. It

always amounts to whatever I’m saying or doing ‘not being Indian’ or ‘not Indian enough’ or ‘Indians don’t do that.’

Feminismpolitical movements, moral philosophies, critical theories

that have in common, both intellectual commitment: critiquing existing inequalities

and raising awarenessa political movement that seeks social change: justice for

women and the end of sexism in all forms

Objective of FeminismFeminism's objective is to end sexism, though because of

its relation to other forms of oppression, this will require efforts to end other forms of oppression as well.

Feminist ValuesEquality, egalitarian relationships, critique of

oppressionBalancing independence and interdependenceEmpowerment and independence for womenValuing diversityEmphasis on strengthsValidation of feelings

Self-in-Relation TheoryThe notion of the self-in-relation makes an important

shift in emphasis from separation to relationship as the basis for self-experience and development.

relationship is seen as the basic goal of development: i.e., the deepening capacity for relationship and relational competence.

other aspects of self-development emerge in the context of relationship, and there is no inherent need to disconnect or to sacrifice relationship for self-development.

What drives development is a yearning for connection rather than a yearning for individuation

We mature by developing the ability to create, build, sustain, and deepen connection.

People grow through and toward relationship throughout the lifespan

Maturation involves movement toward mutualityincreasing complexity and depth of relationshipsincreasing relational competence and capacity over the life span

The Glass CastleHow was sexism manifested in Jeannette’s life? What did Jeannette learn from her parents about male

power and privilege? What lessons did Jeannette learn from her parents about

the role of women? How did the Master Narrative ideal of feminine beauty

influence Jeannette’s relationships with her peers?How did Jeannette’s understanding of relationships differ

from that of her parents?