Standpoint Theory - Key Concepts of Standpoint Theory

Key Concepts of Standpoint Theory

A standpoint is the point where we view the world around us. The standpoint theory strives to understand the world from the standpoint of women and other marginalized groups in society. Generally, the standpoint theory gives insight into specific circumstances only available to the members of a certain collective standpoint. According to Michael Ryan, "the idea of a collective standpoint does not imply an essential overarching characteristic but rather a sense of belonging to a group bounded by a shared experience." That viewpoint can also be said about women who identify as feminists and exhibit strong preferences for specific issues. Kristina Rolin states, "Whereas the assumption of essentialism is that all women share the same socially grounded perspective in virtue of being women, the assumption of automatic epistemic privilege is that epistemic advantage accrues to the subordinate automatically, just in virtue of their occupying a particular social position."

Factors defining our unique standpoint include viewpoint, perspective, outlook, and position. Our locations within society shape the way in which we understand and communicate with ourselves and the world around us. Our worldview is a direct result of our individual standpoint. Inequalities found in gender, race, class, and sexual orientation contribute to the differences found in social hierarchy. Emphasis on the relationship between power and knowledge is crucial in defining the terms the standpoint theory sets forth. Perspectives of the less powerful provide a more objective view than the perspectives of the more powerful in society.

The more authority an individual possesses, the more power they have when implementing their viewpoints on the world . Without power, one does not have a voice and a silenced individual has little say regarding policy. These forces are all contributors to the way people communicate in our world.

Arguably, women being considered a marginalized group is one of the most important key concepts within The Standpoint Theory. This theory recognizes fundamental differences in men and women thus promoting marginalization. A primary discrepancy is noted in the different communication styles found in each gender. While females use communication as a means of connection, males have a tendency to converse in hopes of being assertive and gaining power. Traditionally, society can contribute these communication differences to expectations culture has established.

Hill Collins argues women are the most marginalized group in society and more specifically black feminists because of their "unique angle of vision ". Documented struggles against oppression along with race and gender show the unique characteristics of this group. Collins was the first scholar to combine race, class, and gender calling it the Paradigm of Intersectionality. She insisted these three dimensions intertwined made black feminists the most marginalized group .

Strong objectivity is an ideal element when researching the world and communication patterns using The Standpoint Theory. The strongest objectivity is found through the marginalized feminist perspective, specifically, black feminists. These perspectives can guarantee the most accurate and least distorted view of the world because these individuals aren’t obligated to defend the status quo . The least objective group, white males, primarily hold positions of power therefore obligating them to preserve the status quo . Also, it is essential for individuals with little power to understand the perspectives of the power holders. Power holders have little interest or need to consider other perspectives other than their own. Strong objective groups find comfort in recognizing various perspectives from members outside of their own group. This is a form of adaptation in the face of adversity.