Freire’s takes a stance regarding oppression within a society in his novel The Pedagogy of the Oppressed. The passage assigned to my group begins with “The pedagogy of the oppressed, animated by authentic, humanist (not humanitarian) generosity, presents itself as a pedagogy of humankind”, and ends with “One aspect of the reply is to be found in the distinction between systematic education, which can only be changed by political power, and educational proj-ects, which should be carried out with the oppressed in the process of organizing them.”. The principles Freire explains within this particular passage circumference the operations and execution of oppression.
Freire argues oppression is derived from the egoistic interests of the oppressors withheld by individuals of authority and power, “Pedagogy which begins with the egoistic interests of the oppressors (an egoism cloaked in the false generosity of paternal- ism) and makes of the oppressed the objects of its humanitarianism, itself maintains and embodies oppression”To further explain, those in power such as government officials, law enforcement, etc. structure society to operate systematically based off their beliefs, interests, and personal gain. Therefore, the interests of those who do not withhold power are disregarded. Consequently, the remaining population is disadvantaged because their beliefs and interests are not accounted for, fueling the fire and regulating oppression. Additionally, oppressed individuals operate and conform in accordance to an unequal and bias system intact by authority. To exemplify, the government encompasses educated individuals wherein they create and implement laws that the country must obey regardless of it goes against one’s interest of belief. Freire argues this principle is an “instrument for dehumanization”, due to the abuse of power stripping the ability to freely express the differing quantities contributing to the unique make-up of every human.
Subsequently, Freire explains a potential solution towards eliminating oppression. He presents a revolution that offers a collaborative approach of operating a society. Freire opines; One aspect of the reply is to be found in the distinction between systematic education, which can only be changed by political power, and educational proj- ects, which should be carried out withthe oppressed in the process of organizing them.”.Meaning, inclusion of those oppressed allowing their insight on organizing the ways of which systems run. Therefore, the interests of all beings will be accounted for, rather than those of power.
Personally speaking, I agree with the concept Freire explains in the passage listed above. I believe the U.S. government operates in this fashion wherein those of power determine the functionality of the country. In light of so, the majority of the population has no say regarding the implementation and execution of laws and policies. Additionally, I believe a collaborative approach that Freire presents would eliminate issues that stem to the cause of oppression.
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