A Black Lives Matter flag waves in front of a fire at the North Precinct Police building in Portland, Oregon on September 6, 2020. - Protestors are marching for an end to racial inequality and police violence. Aaron Danielson, 39, a supporter of a far-right group called Patriot Prayer, was fatally shot August 29, 2020, in Portland, Oregon after he joined pro-Trump supporters who descended on the western US city, sparking confrontations with Black Lives Matter counter-protesters. (Photo by Allison Dinner / AFP) (Photo by ALLISON DINNER/AFP via Getty Images)
The discourse surrounding race and racism continues to dominate public conversations, yet the insights of influential thinkers like Jacques Barzun remain largely overlooked. Born in 1907 in France and later becoming an American citizen, Barzun died in 2012 at the age of 104, leaving behind a legacy of profound observations on the nature of race-thinking. His work spans approximately 40 books, with notable titles such as “Dawn to Decadence,” which gained unexpected popularity in the United States around the turn of the millennium.
Barzun’s early academic work, including his doctoral thesis on “The French Race,” introduced the concept of “race-thinking.” He argued it extends beyond mere societal prejudice to encompass the demonization of entire groups during conflicts, including those between nations, political factions, and religious communities. According to Barzun, this mindset often fuels collective hostility and is especially dangerous when intertwined with other forms of prejudice, such as nationalism or radical ideologies.
In his view, the ideology espoused by Karl Marx exemplifies this concept. Barzun contended that Marxist doctrine perpetuates racist thought by reducing individuals to mere categories devoid of personal traits. He criticized the notion that race should play a role in evaluating individuals, insisting that doing so only perpetuates confusion and misguided actions.
Race-Thinking and Its Consequences
Barzun’s critical examination of racism culminated in his 1965 work, “Race, a Study of Superstition.” In this book, he revisited the implications of racism following the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. He asserted that abandoning race-thinking is essential for fostering equal opportunity, but he cautioned against affirmative action, which he viewed as inherently discriminatory. He argued that affirmative action undermines the integrity of organizations and fosters resentment among those who feel disadvantaged by such policies.
Barzun’s insights resonate strongly in today’s climate, where movements like Black Lives Matter can sometimes blur the lines between activism and acts of vandalism. He highlighted the dangers of justifying destructive actions as a means to rectify historical injustices, questioning the impact on individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, who may suffer losses as a result.
In a notable reflection, Barzun recounted an incident involving a group of writers and artists who ceremonially burned an effigy of the white race. He described this act as counterproductive, suggesting that it perpetuates the cycle of race-thinking rather than dismantling it. He posed a critical inquiry: what does such an act achieve for the broader community?
The Importance of Cultural Discourse
Barzun also expressed concerns about the ongoing debate surrounding literature and its place in society. He noted that attempts to ban works like The Merchant of Venice and Huckleberry Finn signal a troubling trend. He warned that yielding to such pressures could lead to increased animosity among various interest groups, undermining the principles of democratic culture.
Despite the challenges posed by cultural disputes, Barzun emphasized the need for civil discourse and mutual respect. He lamented the decline of decency and self-restraint in public life, pointing out that legal frameworks alone are insufficient to protect rights and feelings. Instead, he advocated for a collective commitment to civility as a means of fostering understanding and cooperation.
Barzun’s observations remain relevant, particularly as societies grapple with issues of race and equity. His clarion call against the dangers of race-thinking serves as a reminder that genuine progress requires seeing individuals as more than mere representatives of their racial or ethnic backgrounds. Instead, he championed a vision where opportunities are based on merit, devoid of the divisive lens of race.
In conclusion, Jacques Barzun’s profound insights into race-thinking and its implications continue to resonate today. His warnings against the pitfalls of affirmative action and the need for cultural respect highlight the complexities surrounding discussions on race. As societies strive toward inclusivity and equality, Barzun’s legacy serves as a guiding light, urging a thoughtful approach to understanding the multifaceted nature of human identity.
