In today’s society, diversity and inclusivity have become crucial topics in various fields, including academia. However, despite efforts towards creating a more equitable environment, there are still underlying issues that need to be addressed. One of these issues is white narcissism in the academy, which is the focus of Harshad Keval’s thought-provoking book.
In an interview with sociologist Jason Arday, one of the editors for Sage’s Social Science for Social Justice book series, Keval sheds light on his book and the issue of white narcissism in the academy. Keval, a senior lecturer in social work at the University of Sussex, has extensive experience in teaching and research on race, ethnicity, and social justice.
Keval’s book, titled “White Narcissism in the Academy,” delves into the concept of white narcissism and its impact on the academic world. He defines white narcissism as “a set of beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that perpetuate white privilege and maintain the status quo of white dominance.” In other words, it is the idea that whiteness is superior and should be the norm in all aspects of life, including academia.
When asked about the inspiration behind his book, Keval explains that he has always been interested in the intersection of race and academia. He noticed a lack of critical engagement with whiteness in academic literature, which led him to explore the concept of white narcissism further. Keval’s book is a culmination of his research and personal experiences as a person of color in academia.
In the interview, Keval highlights the impact of white narcissism in the academy, which goes beyond the individual level. He explains that it perpetuates systemic racism and exclusion of marginalized groups in higher education. White narcissism creates a hostile environment for people of color, making it difficult for them to thrive and succeed in academia. It also hinders the progress towards a more diverse and inclusive academic community.
However, Keval also acknowledges that white narcissism is not solely the responsibility of white individuals. He emphasizes that it is a collective issue that needs to be addressed by everyone in academia. Keval believes that white individuals have a crucial role to play in dismantling white narcissism and creating a more equitable environment.
In his book, Keval offers practical solutions for addressing white narcissism in the academy. He suggests that universities should prioritize diversity and inclusion in their policies and practices. This includes recruiting and retaining more diverse faculty and implementing anti-racist training for staff and students. Keval also calls for a critical examination of the curriculum, which often reflects a white-centric perspective.
The interview with Keval is a wake-up call for the academic community to acknowledge and address the issue of white narcissism. It is a reminder that diversity and inclusivity are not just buzzwords but essential elements for a thriving academic environment. Keval’s book offers valuable insights and solutions for creating a more equitable and inclusive academy.
In conclusion, Harshad Keval’s book, “White Narcissism in the Academy,” is a thought-provoking and timely piece of literature that sheds light on a pressing issue in academia. Keval’s research and personal experiences make his book a valuable resource for understanding and addressing white narcissism. It is a must-read for anyone in the academic community who is committed to creating a more diverse and inclusive environment.
