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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:White South African identity and an ethic of reconciliation: racism, guilt and a sense of shame
Author:Ally, M.ISNI
Year:2006
Periodical:Politeia: Journal for Political Science and Public Administration
Volume:25
Issue:1
Pages:30-40
Language:English
Geographic term:South Africa
Subjects:Whites
group identity
conflict resolution
Abstract:Reconciliation is a complex concept. In the context of South Africa it can be conceptualized in terms of both individuals (interpersonal or individual reconciliation) and sociopolitical institutions and processes (national unity model). The second approach assumes that former enemies are unlikely to agree with each other and that the best that can be hoped for is enhanced peaceful coexistence. The present article considers the path travelled (or not travelled) by white South Africans over the decade 1994-2004 with respect to the conceptualization of their identities in the light of the desired goals of an ethic of reconciliation conceived along the lines of both of these models. The more common expressions of this identity are included within two categories which reflect tendencies which were already prevalent in apartheid South Africa: postapartheid syndrome and race evasion. However, the idea of race cognisance (Ruth Frankenberg, 1993) holds the greatest potential for a progressive reconstruction of whiteness. If 'whiteness' is perceived by at least some whites to have been a deliberate mechanism of social advantage, the basis of a possible deconstruction of white South African identity exists, as Melissa Steyn illustrates in 'Whiteness just isn't what it used to be' (2001). If race cognisance is to grow among white South Africans, they need to recognize and acknowledge their complicity in the legacy of apartheid. At the same time, the recognition of collective responsibility, and the associated sense of guilt and shame, undermines the political discourse of a restorative model of (re)conciliation. This dynamic must be replaced by desegregation of minds if the desired outcome is to be social healing and the establishment of a community based on recognition of underlying equality and mutual respect. Bibliogr., notes, ref., sum. [ASC Leiden abstract]
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