Charles W. Mills Racial Liberalism

Liberalism

A dominant global political outlook emphasizing individual rights and freedoms, which emerged in opposition to absolutism in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Neoliberalism vs. Social Democracy

The central debate within liberalism comparing free market ideologies with social democratic/welfarist perspectives.

Utilitarianism

A moral philosophy that dominated liberal thought from the 1800s, promoting the greatest good for the greatest number.

Social Contract

A metaphorical agreement outlining the formation of society and governance, emphasizing that society is an artificial construct.

Racial Liberalism

A form of liberalism historically structured around racial hierarchies, privileging white individuals and marginalizing nonwhites.

Domination Contract

A proposed framework by Mills acknowledging historical oppressions and systemic inequalities inherent in the social contract.

Ideal Theory

A theoretical approach focusing on what justice demands in a perfectly just society, often ignoring historical injustices.

Non-Ideal Theory

A theoretical approach that addresses justice in societies with histories of harm, emphasizing corrective actions like reparations.

John Rawls

A political philosopher known for 'A Theory of Justice,' advocating for fairness and social justice, but critiqued for ignoring racial injustice.

Charles W. Mills

A philosopher arguing for the reevaluation of liberalism to address systemic racism and historical inequalities.

White Supremacy in Liberalism

The claim that racial exclusion and privileging of whites has been foundational to the development and narrative of liberal philosophies.

Color-Blind Racism

A term describing the denial or minimization of racial discrimination, occurring under the guise of racial neutrality.

Contract Theory

Philosophical discourse surrounding the social contract, including debates on the moral and ethical underpinnings of society and governance.

Moral Equality

The foundational principle in liberal thought suggesting that all humans deserve equal rights and respect.

Post-WWII Political Philosophy

A shift in liberal thought focusing on natural rights and personal protections influenced by the atrocities and decolonization after World War II.

Racial Justice

The pursuit of equitable treatment and rights for all races, particularly focusing on dismantling systemic barriers faced by people of color.