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The Problem of Speaking for Others

The Problem of Speaking for Others. By Rachael Watson- LAS497A. To Speak or Not to Speak.

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The Problem of Speaking for Others

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  1. The Problem of Speaking for Others By Rachael Watson- LAS497A

  2. To Speak or Not to Speak Linda Alcoff’s, “The Problem of Speaking for Others,” discusses the ethical issues that emerge when individuals speak for others. Alcoff explains that many believe that in spite of the speaker’s good intentions, they often bring about dangerous consequences for those being represented. PAVED WITH GOOD INTENTIONS

  3. Speak for Yourself Many believe that one should only speak for the group to which they belong to. Alcoff discusses the flaws behind this thinking. How should one be sorted into a group? I am a woman, but does this mean that I can speak for all women? Of course not. People are diverse and complex individuals who belong to a multitude of groups, making it almost unfeasible to simply place them in one specific group.

  4. Hold Your Tongue Some argue that we should refrain from speaking for others completely. Truthfully, we can only fully grasp our own personal experiences, so shouldn’t we only speak for ourselves? Alcoff explains the problem with this theory. If one does not challenge the acts of oppression than they are exhibiting political negligence, hindering advocacy and coalitions.

  5. Think Before You Speak Alcoff provides four items we should take into consideration before speaking for others: • Do you want to listen to those less-privileged or do you simply desire to teach? • How does your location and context influence what you are saying? • You must understand that you are to be fully accountable and responsible for what you say, and should be open to criticism. • What effect will your words truly have for those you speak for?

  6. Listening Rather than Speaking After reading Alcoff’s “The Problem of Speaking for Others” I believe that the most important thing I took away is that we must listen to rather than speak for others. I believe that we must absolutely advocate for those who are oppressed and less-privileged, but we must not think we are the best equipped to do so. We must always be willing to listen.

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