Identity and Power in the University: A Book Review

In her book "Identity and Power in the University," Silvia Teixeira Penteado offers a critical analysis of the ways in which identity and power intersect in the university setting. Drawing on her own experiences as a professor and researcher, as well as on a wealth of sociological and anthropological research, Penteado argues that the university is a site of both privilege and oppression, where the identities of students and faculty are constantly being shaped and reshaped by the power dynamics at play.

Power and Privilege in the University

Penteado begins by exploring the ways in which power and privilege are structured in the university. She argues that the university is a hierarchical institution, in which some individuals and groups have more power than others. This hierarchy is based on a number of factors, including race, gender, class, and academic rank.

Penteado shows how power and privilege can be used to create and maintain inequality in the university. For example, she discusses how white, male professors are more likely to be promoted and tenured than women and minority professors. She also shows how students from wealthy families are more likely to succeed in college than students from poor families.

The Impact of Identity on Power and Privilege

Penteado then goes on to explore the ways in which identity intersects with power and privilege in the university. She argues that our identities are not fixed, but rather are constantly being shaped and reshaped by our interactions with others. This is especially true in the university setting, where students and faculty are constantly exposed to new ideas and perspectives.

Penteado shows how our identities can be used to both empower and oppress us. For example, she discusses how women and minority students can use their identities to challenge the status quo and fight for social justice. However, she also shows how our identities can be used to marginalize and exclude us. For example, she discusses how LGBTQ+ students can be discriminated against and harassed on campus.

The Role of the University in Promoting Social Justice

Penteado concludes by arguing that the university has a responsibility to promote social justice. She argues that the university should be a place where all students and faculty are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their race, gender, class, or sexual orientation. She also argues that the university should be a place where students and faculty are encouraged to challenge the status quo and fight for social justice.

"Identity and Power in the University" is a powerful and insightful book that offers a critical analysis of the ways in which identity and power intersect in the university setting. Penteado's work is essential reading for anyone who is interested in understanding the challenges facing higher education today.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in any of the following topics, then you should read "Identity and Power in the University":

• The intersection of identity and power in the university setting
• The ways in which power and privilege are structured in the university
• The impact of identity on power and privilege
• The role of the university in promoting social justice

This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in understanding the challenges facing higher education today. Penteado's work is essential reading for students, faculty, administrators, and policymakers alike.

How to Purchase This Book

"Identity and Power in the University" is available for purchase from a variety of online retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Google Play. You can also find the book in most major bookstores.