Critical Race Theory (CRT…which later became DEI, or Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) is the current division in our society. It is a concept that has become popular in academic and political circles over the past few decades. CRT/DEI argues that race is not just a biological or genetic trait but a social construct created by power relations in society. It asserts that racism is not just a personal bias but a systemic and institutionalized practice that is embedded in the very fabric of society. Some believe the ideology shines a light on the pervasive nature of racism. However, its obvious negative impact on society needs to be examined and balanced.
Origins of Critical Race Theory
CRT emerged from Critical Legal Studies (CLS) in the late 20th century. CLS was a movement that challenged traditional legal doctrines. It argued that laws are not neutral but are tools used to maintain societal power structures. CLS itself was deeply influenced by broader Critical Theories. These theories originated in the Frankfurt School of thought in the early 20th century. They critiqued and analyzed societal power dynamics. They also focused on how culture, economics, and politics intersect to perpetuate inequality. Drawing from Marxist principles, Critical Theories emphasized the role of systemic structures in maintaining social hierarchies.
The influence of postmodernist thought rejected universal truths and objective perspectives. Postmodernism introduced the idea that knowledge and truth are socially constructed. CRT adopted this framework to suggest that lived experiences, particularly those of marginalized groups, are evidence of the pervasive and nuanced nature of racism. This combination of Critical Legal Studies, Marxist critique, and postmodernist perspectives is the foundation for CRT. These shaped its focus on systemic racism and power dynamics.
Our Current Societal Division – An Ideology
Critical Theories and DEI programs are ideologies (as opposed to science-based theories) because they present a specific framework for interpreting society. These theories are built on foundational assumptions. These assumptions include the idea that power dynamics are the central organizing principle of society and that institutions perpetuate inequality. Rooted in Marxist and postmodernist thought, they emphasize the role of systemic structures in maintaining oppression while rejecting the idea of objective or universal truths. This biased perspective guides how proponents of CRT analyze and address societal issues. This leads activists to focus on dismantling perceived power hierarchies without looking beyond the ideology for objective alternatives.
Critical Theories act as an ideology in other ways, such as selective interpretation of evidence and resistance to criticism. By prioritizing certain narratives, CRT/DEI reinforces its foundational assumptions. Opposition to CRT is often framed as complicity in systemic racism, which rejects legitimate debate and alternative viewpoints. This prescriptive and binary framework—dividing individuals into categories of “oppressors” and “oppressed”—further underscores its ideological nature. Inviting division as its aim, it promotes a particular worldview while dismissing dissent as illegitimate or harmful.
Empowerment Instead of Victimhood
A focus on victimhood creates an unhealthy society. Critical Race Theory asserts that all people of color are automatically oppressed due to the color of their skin. This creates a sense of victimhood among groups of people it deems “oppressed”. It insists that racism is an inherent and pervasive feature of society and that individuals are unable to escape its effects. This creates a sense of powerlessness among people who believe that they are victims of racism. This leads to a culture of blame and resentment and derails progress and healing.
Critical Theories (including race theory and queer theory) silences differing viewpoints. Proponents argue that any opposition to the theory is itself evidence of bigotry, as those who oppose the Critical Theories are said to be trying to preserve their privilege and power. This rhetoric can create an environment where legitimate debate and discussion are discouraged, and where individuals are afraid to voice their opinions for fear of being labeled as racist or bigoted.
Ideologies that focus on individual identity rather than on commonalities that unite us as a society, only lead to a fragmented and divided society. They create a groupthink (us vs them) mentality where people only care about their own group’s needs. Identity politics promote tribalism and limits the possibility of social unity and progress.
Damage Done
CRT has been criticized for its oversimplification of complex social issues. CRT tends to reduce complex social issues to a simple dichotomy of oppressor versus oppressed. This simplistic view of social issues can be misleading and can create a distorted view of reality. Additionally, CRT tends to reduce the complexity of human behavior to a set of fixed identities, such as white or black, oppressor or oppressed. This can lead to stereotyping and prejudice, which are themselves forms of racism.
Another issue with CRT is that it tends to ignore the progress that has been made in terms of racial equality. CRT proponents argue that racism is an inherent feature of society and that it can never be fully eradicated. This can create a sense of hopelessness among people who believe progress is impossible. Critics argue that CRT ignores the significant progress that has been made in terms of racial equality over the past few decades. While racism still exists, it is no longer as pervasive or institutionalized as it once was.
Finally, CRT has been criticized for its negative impact on education. CRT/DEI has become increasingly popular in academic circles, with many schools and universities adopting CRT as part of their curriculum. Critics argue that CRT promotes a one-sided view of history and society and that it can create a biased and distorted view of reality. Additionally, CRT/DEI can create a hostile environment for students who do not share their views, leading to a culture of fear and intimidation.
Conclusion
Critical Race Theory is a divisive concept that has had a negative impact on our society. Societies, of course, must acknowledge the pervasive nature of racism and work towards racial equality. However, CRT and DEI’s emphasis on identity politics, victimhood, and oversimplification of complex social issues has created a culture of blame and resentment. CRT has also been used to silence dissenting opinions and to create a hostile environment for other viewpoints. CRT’s negative impact on social cohesion, progress, and education cannot be ignored. We must find a better way to address issues of racism in our society.