Question

Philosophy question (use 3-5 sentences to answer)

Explain what the mythical norm is, according to Lorde. Why is understanding this concept central to her view that uniting differencrs is essential to fighting against systematic opression?

Answer 1

Audra Lorde introduces the term mythical norms that refers to idealized characters of the society that holds power and cause oppression. In the typical American myth, an ideal and desired person is a white male who is thin and young and practice heterosexuality and Christianity who is also financially secure. This would mean all those who do not fit in this definition would struggle hard to stand a chance in terms of equality and equal opportunities. Understanding these mythical norms are important in order to understand why people build stereotypes around others and treat them differently. Only by breaking these mythical norms, the society would become more open.

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