Evaluating the Merits of Identity Politics: Rabbi Michael Lerner’s Criteria
By Adis Duderija, New Age Islam
16 May 2024
Identity politics has become a prominent force in
contemporary social and political discourse. While it has been praised for
amplifying marginalized voices and shedding light on systemic injustices, it
has also faced criticism for potential divisiveness and the exclusion of
alternative perspectives. Rabbi
Michael Lerner presents a set
of criteria to assess the praiseworthiness or blame-worthiness of identity
politics. In this essay, I will examine
these criteria and explore how they shape the progressive approach to identity
politics.
Rabbi Michael Lerner
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Identity
politics is a political
approach and analysis based on people prioritising the concerns of their own
particular racial, religious, ethnic, sexual, social, cultural or other
identity group over those of other groups or society as a whole. It involves
mobilizing political action around the shared experiences and interests of a
particular group, often marginalized or underrepresented, in order to achieve
political goals. Identity politics emphasizes the importance of the unique
experiences, perspectives and concerns of that group, rather than focusing on
universal political values.
Criterion 1: Encouraging Inter-Identity Commonalities
The first criterion Rabbi Lerner proposes is whether identity
politics encourages individuals to recognize commonalities among different
identity groups. Progressives’ identity politics should foster solidarity and
empathy, emphasizing shared struggles and goals. By recognizing inter-identity
commonalities, people can forge alliances and work collectively towards
societal transformation. In a society characterised by divisions and
inequalities, it is crucial for identity politics to cultivate a sense of unity
among marginalized groups. By highlighting the common experiences of
oppression, activists can build bridges of understanding, empathy, and
solidarity. Recognizing shared struggles does not diminish the unique
challenges faced by each group but rather strengthens the collective movement
for justice.
Criterion 2: Promoting Intersectional Liberation
Rabbi
Lerner’s second
criterion emphasizes the need for identity politics to acknowledge that no
single identity group can achieve liberation in isolation. Progressives should
understand that true liberation requires respectful engagement and mutual support
between various identity groups. The interconnectedness of systemic oppression
demands a comprehensive approach that transcends narrow self-interest.
Intersectionality, a concept coined by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw,
recognises that individuals experience overlapping and intersecting forms of
discrimination based on their race, gender, class, sexuality, and other social
identities. It is through an intersectional lens that identity politics can
effectively address the complexities of power and privilege. By embracing
intersectionality, progressives can ensure that the struggles of all
marginalized groups are acknowledged and addressed in a holistic manner.
Criterion 3: Acknowledging Privilege and Distortions
The third criterion challenges identity politics to
recognize that privilege and distortions exist within every group. Blanket
labelling of entire groups as privileged can oversimplify complex dynamics and
alienate potential allies. A nuanced understanding of privilege allows for a
more accurate analysis of power structures and fosters empathy and cooperation
among diverse groups.
While identity politics rightly highlights the experiences
of marginalized groups, it is essential to acknowledge that privilege is not
exclusive to dominant identities. Within any identity group, there can be
variations in privilege due to factors such as socioeconomic status, education,
or geographic location. By recognizing the complexities of privilege, identity
politics can avoid creating an “us versus them” narrative and promote
inclusivity and understanding.
Criterion 4: Embracing Debate and Alternative
Perspectives
Rabbi Lerner’s fourth criterion addresses the importance of
fostering open dialogue and welcoming diverse perspectives within identity
politics. Progressives should encourage debates and the inclusion of
alternative viewpoints, even if they initially seem contrary to the dominant
narrative. Shutting down dissenting voices undermines the potential for growth,
learning, and the development of more effective strategies for social change.
A healthy and robust democracy thrives on the exchange of
ideas and perspectives. Identity politics should not be exempt from this
principle. Engaging in constructive debates and welcoming alternative
viewpoints can strengthen the movement by challenging assumptions, refining
arguments, and building broader coalitions. By creating spaces for respectful
dialogue, progressives can demonstrate the openness and intellectual rigor of
their movement.
Criterion 5: Analysing Class Differences within Identity
Groups
The fifth criterion highlights the significance of
recognising class differences within identity groups. Any praiseworthy identity
politics should acknowledge the complexities of social stratification and avoid
making sweeping generalisations. Understanding the role of class enables a more
nuanced critique of oppressive systems and challenges the notion that all
members of a particular identity group are beneficiaries or victims of the same
system.
Class intersects with various forms of identity and significantly
shapes people’s lived experiences. It is essential to recognize that privilege
and oppression can manifest differently within and across different identity
groups. Failing to acknowledge class differences can lead to oversimplification
and divisions within the movement. By analysing class dynamics, identity
politics can develop a more comprehensive understanding of systemic oppression
and advocate for economic justice alongside social equality.
Criterion 6: Promoting Respectful Dialogue
Respectful dialogue is crucial for the success of any
progressive identity politics. The sixth criterion emphasises the importance of
maintaining civility and avoiding demeaning or dehumanizing language. By
fostering an environment of respect and consideration, identity politics can
create a space for constructive discourse and bridge-building, enhancing the
potential for collective action.
In the pursuit of justice, it is essential to uphold
principles of respect and empathy. Dismissing or belittling others based on their
identities undermines the very foundations of identity politics. By promoting
respectful dialogue, progressives can create an inclusive space that welcomes
diverse perspectives, encourages introspection, and fosters understanding among
individuals and groups with differing experiences.
Criterion 7:Guarding Against Infiltration and
Discreditation
The final criterion put forth by Rabbi Lerner warns against
undercover agents or provocateurs who may infiltrate identity groups with the
intention of inciting violence or discrediting legitimate demands for social
change. Progressives must remain vigilant and discerning, recognising that
violence only serves to undermine the credibility of the broader movement. By
staying true to nonviolent and inclusive principles, identity politics can
maintain its integrity and effectiveness.
Throughout history, there have been instances where state
agents or extremist groups have sought to infiltrate social justice movements,
aiming to provoke violence or discredit the movement as a whole. It is crucial
for progressives engaged in
identity politics to be
aware of these risks and remain vigilant. Nonviolence, peaceful protest, and
constructive dialogue are powerful tools for effecting change and countering
attempts to delegitimize the movement. By staying true to its core values and
rejecting violence, identity politics can maintain its moral high ground and
continue to garner support from diverse communities.
Rabbi Michael Lerner’s criteria provide a valuable framework
for evaluating the praiseworthiness or blame-worthiness of identity politics.
When applied conscientiously, these criteria help guide progressives in
navigating the complex terrain of identity politics, ensuring that the movement
remains inclusive, empathetic, and focused on long-term societal
transformation. By fostering inter-identity connections, promoting
intersectional liberation, embracing respectful dialogue and diverse
perspectives, analysing class dynamics, and guarding against infiltration and
discreditation, progressives can harness the potential of identity politics to
dismantle systemic oppression and build a more just and equitable world.
Identity politics, at its best, serves as a tool for
marginalized communities to reclaim their voices, challenge dominant
narratives, and fight for social justice. By adhering to Rabbi Lerner’s
criteria, progressives can ensure that identity politics remains a force for
positive change, rooted in empathy, inclusivity, and a commitment to
dismantling intersecting systems of oppression. It is through the recognition
of shared struggles, the promotion of intersectional solidarity, and the
fostering of respectful dialogue that identity politics can build bridges,
forge alliances, and create a more equitable society for all.
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A decades old patron of
New Age Islam, Dr Adis Duderija is a Senior Lecturer in the Study of Islam and
Society, School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science; Senior Fellow
Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, Griffith University | Nathan
| Queensland | Australia. His forthcoming books are ( co-edited)- Shame, Modesty, and Honora in Islam and Interfaith Engagement Beyond the Divide (Springer)