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Straight White Male: The Lowest Difficulty Setting There Is! /sarc

MockingDead

May 16, 2012

11 upvotes

/r/MensRights

http://whatever.scalzi.com/2012/05/15/straight-white-male-the-lowest-difficulty-setting-there-is/

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Post Information

Title	Straight White Male: The Lowest Difficulty Setting There Is! /sarc
Author	MockingDead
Upvotes	11
Comments	74
Date	May 16, 2012 4:50 AM UTC (14 years ago)
Subreddit	Posted in /r/MensRights
Original Link	https://old.reddit.com/r/MensRights/comments/tpi2v/straight_white_male_the_lowest_difficulty_setting/
Archive Link	https://theredarchive.com/r/MensRights/straight-white-male-the-lowest-difficulty-setting.1021760 https://theredarchive.com/post/1021760

Comments

[–]thrway_1000 9 points10 points11 points 14 years ago (1 child) | Copy Link

[–][deleted] 1 point2 points3 points 14 years ago* (0 children) | Copy Link

[–]Coldbeam 13 points14 points15 points 14 years ago (8 children) | Copy Link

[–]genuinemra 2 points3 points4 points 14 years ago (0 children) | Copy Link

[+][deleted] 14 years ago (1 child) | Copy Link

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[–]cthulufunk 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago* (0 children) | Copy Link

"Straight white men have never been a marginalized minority so I needn't see the need to be so offended when people try to shatter you off your pedestal of absentminded privilege."

Citation for how straight white men, or men, are a majority. This is the wrong place to come in brandishing sophistries.

"Nobody is saying that 'straight white men' don't face problems in life however you have undeniable advantages to minorities and women when it comes to discrimination, legal rights/laws, employment/pay etc."

What "legal rights/laws" are advantageous to straight white men over others?

"It becomes tiring like talking to a brick wall with some privilege dudes who I guess through a lack of empathy.."

It's quite difficult to have empathy for those with none for you.

"Privilege isn't a fucking attack or pejorative on people, most people have some form of privilege, accept it and try to help others less fortunate than you."

Perhaps you should follow your own advice. Many people do not respond well to guilt-trips and presumptions of their backgrounds.

[+]kronox 14 years ago [recovered] (4 children) | Copy Link

Thank you, that is one of the most ignorant sexist racist statemants all wrapped into one that i have ever read. It infuriates me that people think this way. I see it all the time and it never ends.

I was raised as a conservative christian in a middle class family in the US. I was always taught how to respect women and hold them up on a pedestal. I was told to always help those in need especially women or children

So i met a nerdy girl in highschool, i was kind of nerdy but had a lot of friends. She approached me with notes and such seducing me to interact with her (i dont mean seducing in a negative way she simply made her attempts obvious). I gave in and we fooled around once or twice.

Fast forward 3 years, after everyone has graduated. I see her and her friends at a local Jack in the Box and she looks completely different, contacts instead of glasses, slim instead of slightly pudgy, just generally better looking all around. We start to hook up. Before we have sex we talk and i make sure she is on birth control. She tells me she is on the shot so there is no problem. I am 19 years old at the time and i trusted her after knowing her for so long so we went ahead and had sex.

Keep in mind that there are plenty of couples who rely soley on birth countrol on the side of the women, who have 'unprotected' sex and no one gives them any grief. Hell, i'm in a relationship like that right now, only difference is i can see her take the birth control pill every night. Whereas a shot is only administered once every three or four months.

On a side note, we also discussed the possibility of her somehow magically getting pregnant, we both agreed that we didnt want to have children, and that she would abort, adopt, legally surrender any babie that might come of consequence.

Fast forward three more months, She is pregnant. She quickly, at the beckoning of her cocaine addicted mother, decided she was keeping the child.

In all my upbringing i was told that this is something i have to accept and "rise to the occasion". So i did. I went with her to doctor appointments, i bought and planned for having a baby. My immediate family built up a nursery, as i was only 19 so i'm still living with my parents. The only thing i neglected to do was contract an attorney for the coming chaos.

Three weeks after my son was born my ex-fool around with buddy took off with him to another state for a week without my permission. I was devestated because i realized she as the mother could simply do whatever she wished no matter what i suffered at a whim.

I immediately sued her for custody upon arrival from her week long trip. What followed was a three year long battle for 50/50 custody. It took an astonishing $15,000 dollars and three years to secure it but i finally have.

I just can't belive i had to pay money to have legal rights to my child. It seems like the most incredibly barbaric practice one could imgaine, yet here we are in the U.S.A. practicing that very thing.

"White privilege" is the term that when i hear it used seriously, i stop listening.

[–]mzmarymack 3 points4 points5 points 14 years ago (3 children) | Copy Link

[–]cthulufunk 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago (0 children) | Copy Link

[–]kronox -1 points0 points1 point 14 years ago (0 children) | Copy Link

[–]MockingDead[S] -5 points-4 points-3 points 14 years ago (0 children) | Copy Link

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[–]mzmarymack 5 points6 points7 points 14 years ago (31 children) | Copy Link

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[–]mzmarymack 5 points6 points7 points 14 years ago (29 children) | Copy Link

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[–]Bridging -1 points0 points1 point 14 years ago (12 children) | Copy Link

[–]cthulufunk 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago (1 child) | Copy Link

[–]Bridging 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago (0 children) | Copy Link

[–]mzmarymack -4 points-3 points-2 points 14 years ago (9 children) | Copy Link

[–]MockingDead[S] 1 point2 points3 points 14 years ago (2 children) | Copy Link

[–]mrfloopa 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago (0 children) | Copy Link

[–]mzmarymack 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago (0 children) | Copy Link

[–]Bridging 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago (5 children) | Copy Link

[–]mzmarymack 1 point2 points3 points 14 years ago (4 children) | Copy Link

I apologize for the insult, but to be fair on myself, I was in the middle of my second all-nigher, and your ridiculous gif rankled me.

That said: you are totally missing the point. The sociological definition of racism is power + prejudice. It's possible for things to be discriminatory, prejudiced, and bigoted against white people, but that's not how "racism" as an accepted academic definition works. Nonetheless, I'd argue that these scholarships are as discriminatory as any scholarship requirements, and even then, most ethnic/racial scholarships I've across were from organizations by and for POC-- much in the way of alum scholarships, scholarships offered to employee's kin, etc. Also, the purpose of race/ethnic-based scholarship is to address populations that are institutionally and systematically marginalized, of which POC are primary populations.

Oh, and I didn't downvote your comment. =/

[–]Bridging 1 point2 points3 points 14 years ago (3 children) | Copy Link

The gif was meant for comedic purposes only and in no way should it have offended a reasonable person. However, I do sympathize with you as far as working long hours. To retain my honors scholarship I have to continually push myself and that often means little to no sleep. George Carlin and Richard Prior both did comedy routines involving race. Sometimes poking fun is okay as long as it is in a light hearted fashion. It is not the words that matter, but the intention that they carry with them. But back to the debate; I don't agree with the definition you proposed, but prefer the definition that Merriam-Webster suggests here. At no point in their definition do they mention power as a requirement for racism. In fact, it is absurd, to me, to suggest that a black person cannot be racist towards a white person. I believe this video can provide sufficient proof for this objection. And if you disagree that the man in the video is racist towards white people I see no reason to continue this discussion, because you obviously are not willing to be persuaded. See my second response to kronox for more information on why I disagree with race specific scholarships. Moreover, I would like to see someone answer this question: how in good conscience can any minority accept aid simply because they are in the minority. Technically I am considered a minority, but I refuse to accept any handouts simply because I was born a certain way and instead choose to earn my way.

[–]mzmarymack 1 point2 points3 points 14 years ago (2 children) | Copy Link

Thanks for the sly insult there. lol. I'm a very reasonable person, but your gif, while intended for comedic purposes, implied to me that you assumed that I didn't have anything worthwhile to say, hence "this should be good." This annoyed me, along with what I did in fact feel was an asinine question, but that's my fault for discussing race on Reddit at all, honestly.

I have nothing to say about race in comedy, because that would take a book to really dissect. That said, I want to reiterate that the sociological, academic definition of "racism" requires institutional structures and, therefore power. Basic Dictionary definitions do nothing to discuss actual histories of racism and the systemic implementation and perpetuation of racism within society. This is the purpose of the academic definition-- to provide understanding of racism as it has existed historically and institutionally to subjugate those marginalized as "other." By this definition, it's not possible to be racist towards white people (although Jews throw this discussion for a spin), but it IS possible to be bigoted, prejudiced, and discriminate against white people. Now, I didn't view the video, but is there a specific reason why it is not enough to call it bigoted, as opposed to racist, which again has actual academic implications?

As for this:

Moreover, I would like to see someone answer this question: how in good conscience can any minority accept aid simply because they are in the minority.

I feel like I'm repeating myself over and over here, but you still don't understand-- POC are not receiving scholarships SIMPLY BECAUSE they are POC. Ethnicity/race is one of many basic requirements, akin to age, field of study, and legal status in the U.S., but the scholarships themselves are being earned rightfully through an application process. It's not just like the scholarships are being handed out to every POC around; the recipients must be qualified, as proven by the application process.

To put it simply: I apply to the scholarship because I fit the requirements, and I win it because I'm fucking bad ass.

Technically I am considered a minority, but I refuse to accept any handouts simply because I was born a certain way and instead choose to earn my way.

This is interesting. Didn't you say that your 1/8 Hispanic friend qualified for more scholarships than you? How is this, if you are in fact a POC?

[–]Bridging1 point 14 years ago [recovered] | Copy Link

I thought since we were arguing for equality I should even the playing field. It is not to be taken overly serious. I don't think we could manage to maintain this level of discussion without both parties agreeing to some degree of decorum. At any rate this discussion has been entertaining. Would you mind giving me a link that could further explain the definition of racism you are using. A paper or essay, anything that has been published should be fine; the more examples you give the better I will understand where you are coming from. As of right now I am insisting that racism applies to every race because all the information I have read thus far points in this direction. I generally do not believe things without evidence to support it. Also, it seems that this (your) definition for racism would be more difficult to apply to individual instances or events that occur outside of the United States. Until you can provide evidence to back up your claim I will have to disagree. As for the scholarship argument I do not believe either one of us is gaining any ground so if you don't mind I would like to change gears. Perhaps answering several of my questions could clear up some of the misconceptions I have had of your beliefs and arguments before we continue this discussion. The first question is: are there scholarships that require, among other things, one to be a specific race? If so can you please link me an example? I realize that I have asked you to link to me two different things and you may or may not be aggravated, but this is for a reason. It is important that we are discussing the same thing otherwise we are just wasting each other’s time. Finally, I am considered a minority and, no, I never said I had a friend that is 1/8 Hispanic that qualified for more scholarships than me. Please go back and read through the comments again because you are confusing me with someone else. Also, on a side note, please notice how I used the word minority and not the acronym POC. I am not a POC, but I am still a minority. Simply because you are not a POC does not mean you cannot be a minority.

[–]Bridging1 point 14 years ago [recovered] | Copy Link

[–]kronox -2 points-1 points0 points 14 years ago (14 children) | Copy Link

[–]mzmarymack 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago (0 children) | Copy Link

[–]Bridging -3 points-2 points-1 points 14 years ago (12 children) | Copy Link

[–]kronox 0 points1 point2 points 14 years ago* (11 children) | Copy Link

Im not sure what you're saying here maybe i wasn't clear. I dont agree at all with any discrimination, i just had a thought about why we might be seeing more white men receiving scholarships than say black men.

Also, arent there more white men in america than other races? I've always been told white was a majority thus the reason we have minorities. With that in mind would it not make sense that on average more white men as a flat number would be attending college than men of minority at any given time in the US? With that said would it not make sense that on average the numbers of white men receiving college scholarships across the country would generally be higher than that of minorities?

This is my hang up with the idea that minorities are being discrminated against when it comes to education opportunities. Everyone is running around offended when all i see is a simple gap between how many white poeple live here vs how many minorities immigrated here.

[–]mzmarymack 1 point2 points3 points 14 years ago (7 children) | Copy Link

With that said would it not make sense that on average the numbers of white men receiving college scholarships across the country would generally be higher than that of minorities?

But this isn't the case-- the study I linked above shows that white people receive scholarships disproportionate to the rates they are attending college. Of course white people would receive more scholarships in general, but why are they receiving even higher than their attendance rates would imply?

"Caucasian students receive more than three-quarters (76%) of all institutional merit-based scholarship and grant funding, even though they represent less than two-thirds (62%) of the student population."

Everyone is running around offended when all i see is a simple gap between how many white poeple live here vs how many minorities immigrated here.

POC does not automatically = immigration. There are communities that have lived in the U.S. for even longer than white people have, as well as just as long.

[–]kronox -1 points0 points1 point 14 years ago (6 children) | Copy Link

[–]mzmarymack 2 points3 points4 points 14 years ago (3 children) | Copy Link

[–]kronox0 points 14 years ago [recovered] | Copy Link

I think you're getting a little too personal and emotional here, really it's just a discussion. I apologize greatly for saying "they" instead of "a Genderologist from a well respected and higly funded research institute". I figured it was implied.

And no one is running away crying "discrimination,"

I said that because you seem to be of the mindset that discrimination is behind the cause of this disproportion you earlier offered. If you don't believe it is because of discrimination then once again i apologize.

so you can learn what discrimination against POC looks like.

I live in a northern CA town that is 80% hispanic. My best friend/neighbor growing up is Hispanic as well as my girlfriend, My neighbor two doors down was black and my neighbor on my other side is Asian. In our schooling system we are forced fed every minority perspective textbook available.

I know what discrimination against POC looks like.

[–]mzmarymack1 point 14 years ago [recovered] | Copy Link

Cool, thanks for clarifying. Your use of "they" did upset me, because while I initially assumed you meant researchers, I wasn't sure why you'd then say that the researchers ran away crying discrimination. Obviously this isn't the case in the study I cited, although different studies may or may not have that stance/concluding message.

All in all, I really meant no more than what I actually have been saying, but people tend to assume more and read into my words, which is frustrating. It's hard to have a conversation with someone who assumes more than what I mean, and assumes incorrectly.

As for reading up on history... I'm glad that your education system has included POC history in their curriculum. This isn't always the case, and as a result, we have huge populations of people with no understanding at all of the systemic and institutional racism present in U.S. society, nor of the true history of such.

[–]kronox1 point 14 years ago [recovered] | Copy Link

[–]mrfloopa -2 points-1 points0 points 14 years ago* (1 child) | Copy Link

Yeah, there have been studies. Plenty of them. And historical and sociological work that has looked into it.

But then it runs into people like you, who seem to deny it blindly anyway and cling to their own beliefs. Just think using common sense for a small amount of time--this country has systematically oppressed groups, including women and minorities, legally until a couple decades ago. Your parents, and your grandparents definitely, grew up in a time where hating minorities was perfectly acceptable. And your parents and maybe your grandparents are now the people in the positions to decide who gets jobs, who gets scholarships, who gets "in." Those generations are now in charge. Bruises don't go away overnight. Those people's minds don't magically change with laws. All that changed is that the laws say it is illegal. It's like running around the day after slaves were freed and saying, "There's no more discrimination left!" It's ignorant. There are countless more things to take into account that are, but fear-mongerers and other people who preach hate to further their own agendas would like you to believe otherwise. I mean, you really trust people? For goodness sakes, a ton of this country watches Fox news as news, and it was made illegal in other countries for lying. I'm sure the people watching here are educated and informed. That is a general metaphor to illustrate the idea that you are, metaphorically, one of those fox viewers--misinformed and liking it.

Let's look at prison rates--most people in prison are minorities. Most people in this country are white. Certainly, it has nothing to do with the fact that minorities have been hated and abused in this country for centuries. It must deny the logical conclusion that prison rates should match demographics (which crimes mostly do, and studies have shown that countless times). Instead, it has to do with discrimination. With constantly stopping minorities. With finding them "suspicious" and "dangerous." And then, as a result of this discrimination, idiots run around using circular logic that, since prisons are filled with discriminated against minorities, those minorities must be more dangerous! And then the system perpetuates itself.

All of this has been studied. All of this has been shown. I hate to say that you're horribly misinformed, but you obviously are about even basic issues. You don't have the education to be part of this debate.

[–]kronox1 point 14 years ago [recovered] | Copy Link

I don't believe i have ever said the words "there is no discrimination anywhere". My whole point was that in the education system in the U.S. i find it incredibly hard to believe there is any form of discrimination against minorities.

I say this because i work at my local community college bookstore, i do everything from receiving, paperwork, maintenance, supervising the floor, to cashiering and customer service. The reason i bring this up is because it just so happens to be graduation time. My C.C. is not small by any means. I also live in a northern CA city with a population that is in majority Hispanic. As far as i have seen every single day with customers coming in to pick up their graduation gowns and honor chords that 80-90% of these individuals are Hispanic, and out of that 80-90% at least 80% are women. These students are mainly graduating through the nursing program and agricultural studies along with administrative justice.

I also want to point out that almost every Hispanic customer that comes into the bookstore is on EOPS, which means they don't have to pay for textbooks up to $500. On top of this almost none of them pay at all for any of the tuition.

As a white male i don't qualify for any of those programs, and my parents are not rich by any means. So when someone comes up to me and talks about a lack of educational opportunities for minorities i tend to laugh inside because i see the exact opposite every single day at work.

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