Graduate Program

English

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Semester of Degree Completion

2007

Thesis Director

Donna Binns

Thesis Committee Member

Ann Boswell

Thesis Committee Member

Tim Engles

Abstract

Critical whiteness studies is a primary component of multicultural education that is frequently absent from curricula at all educational levels. This deficiency in the core philosophy of education produces white and non-white students who lack an analytical understanding of the true impact of whiteness on American society, culture, and media. Through lessons infused and influenced by a whiteness perspective, educators may begin the process of creating anti-racist white allies who will continue to change society with a positive impact. Additionally, teachers should help students view their world through the lens of critical whiteness studies in order to promote a more authentic vision and comprehension of America. In order to accomplish this goal, educators should advocate reading To Kill a Mockingbird and The Great Gatsby (as well as other texts) from a perspective of whiteness, as literature often elucidates society and culture. If the education system truly strives to construct well-informed citizens who will question, challenge, and recreate the knowledge they have obtained, then there can be no question of the essential need for critical whiteness studies in every classroom throughout America.

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