Everyday Practices and the Naturalization of Inequality

Introduction

In their book, "Everyday Practices and the Naturalization of Inequality," Mary Jane Spink and Peter Spink argue that inequality is not simply a product of structural factors, such as class, race, and gender, but is also produced and reproduced through everyday practices. They define everyday practices as "the routines, rituals, and habits that people engage in on a daily basis." These practices can be as simple as the way we interact with our neighbors or the way we spend our money. However, Spink and Spink argue that these seemingly innocuous practices can have a profound impact on the reproduction of inequality.

The Naturalization of Inequality

One of the key arguments of the book is that inequality is naturalized through everyday practices. This means that inequality is made to seem normal and inevitable. For example, the authors discuss how the media often portrays poverty as a personal failing, rather than a structural problem. This can lead people to believe that poverty is something that is deserved, rather than something that is caused by systemic factors.

Another way that inequality is naturalized is through the way that we talk about it. For example, the authors discuss how the term "middle class" is often used to describe people who are actually quite wealthy. This can lead people to believe that they are part of the middle class, even if they are actually struggling financially. This can make it difficult for people to see the real extent of inequality in society.

The Reproduction of Inequality

Spink and Spink also argue that everyday practices can reproduce inequality. For example, the authors discuss how the way that we raise our children can have a significant impact on their future opportunities. Children who are raised in wealthy families have access to better education, healthcare, and nutrition. This can give them a significant advantage over children who are raised in poor families.

Another way that everyday practices can reproduce inequality is through the way that we interact with each other. For example, the authors discuss how people who are discriminated against often internalize this discrimination. This can lead them to believe that they are inferior to others, which can make it difficult for them to succeed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spink and Spink argue that inequality is not simply a product of structural factors, but is also produced and reproduced through everyday practices. They call for a critical examination of these practices in order to challenge the naturalization of inequality and to create a more just and equitable society.

Why You Should Read This Book

"Everyday Practices and the Naturalization of Inequality" is a must-read for anyone who is interested in understanding the causes of inequality. The book provides a wealth of evidence to support the authors' arguments, and it is written in a clear and accessible style. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand how inequality is produced and reproduced in our society, and for anyone who wants to create a more just and equitable world.