In one of the scariest moments in modern history, we're doing our best at ScheerPost to pierce the fog of lies that conceal it but we need some help to pay our writers and staff. Please consider a tax-deductible donation.
By: Joshua Scheer
Join us for a thought-provoking episode as we sit down with Dr. Jonathan Lassiter, author of the compelling memoir, How I Know Why White People Are Crazy and Other Stories. Dr. Lassiter, a licensed psychologist and cultural commentator, takes us on a journey through his personal experiences and insights on the complexities of race, identity, and the pervasive whiteness mindset that shapes our society. Discover how fear, competition, and a distorted sense of self can keep us trapped in cycles of oppression, and learn about the power of curiosity and cultural humility in fostering genuine connections across communities. Whether you’re a seasoned scholar or just beginning to explore these themes, this conversation invites you to reflect on your own perspectives and the world around you. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion that bridges the gap between personal narrative and critical social issues!
For the Readers:
This article is based on a transcript generated from our podcast discussion. It’s a quick, computer-assisted draft—rushed, but intended to help anyone who prefers reading over listening. If audio formats are challenging, consider this a brief primer on our conversation. I also encourage you to visit Dr. Lassiter’s webpage; his book is out now.
In our conversation, I had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Jonathan M. Lassiter, a psychologist and author of the thought-provoking book How I Know Why White People Are Crazy and Other Stories. Published by Legacy Lit Books, the book blends personal narrative with political commentary to explore the complexities of race, identity, and societal expectations. Below are some key takeaways from our discussion.
Key Takeaways:
The Whiteness Mindset
Dr. Lassiter introduces the concept of the “whiteness mindset,” which he describes as a way of perceiving the world based on three core assumptions:
1. Scarcity: There is not enough to go around.
2. Survival of the Fittest: Kill or be killed—both physically and metaphorically.
3. Division: An us-versus-them mentality.
When individuals adopt this mindset, they often prioritize individualism and materialism, leading to a lack of empathy for others. “This mindset isn’t just limited to those who identify as white; it predates racial categories and is fundamentally rooted in fear,” Dr. Lassiter emphasized.
Collectivism vs. Competition
Throughout the discussion, we explored the idea of collectivism as an antidote to the competitive nature of the whiteness mindset. Dr. Lassiter contrasts this with the African-centered psychology that emphasizes community and harmony over individual success.
“Historically, many cultures have thrived on a communal sense of self, integrating mind, body, and spirit,” he explained. “Survival should be about the group, not just the individual.”
The Doctrine of Discovery
We also touched on historical injustices, particularly the doctrine of discovery—a policy that allowed European powers to claim and exploit lands inhabited by non-Christians. This framework of oppression, which was only formally repudiated in 2023, has had lasting effects on societal structures.
“This mindset spread from being aberrant to being considered normal, and that is the problem,” Dr. Lassiter noted. “The belief that one has a right to occupy every space is a direct result of fear and a lack of understanding of our interconnectedness.”
The Pie Factor: A Metaphor for Scarcity
During our conversation, I introduced the concept of the “pie factor,” which refers to the fear of scarcity that leads to competition among marginalized groups. “If I give you a piece of my pie, I won’t have enough for myself,” I explained. Dr. Lassiter agreed, stating that this illusion of limitation stems from the whiteness mindset.
“Indigenous communities have historically understood the importance of giving back to the earth, maintaining a cyclical relationship that ensures everyone’s needs are met,” he said. “The idea that there isn’t enough to go around is fundamentally flawed.”
The Role of Cultural Humility
As we wrapped up our conversation, Dr. Lassiter highlighted the importance of cultural humility—a lifelong process of understanding that one does not know everything. This approach encourages curiosity and empathy toward others’ lived experiences.
“Cultural humility is about being non-judgmental and understanding our own biases,” he said. “It’s essential for fostering genuine connections and dismantling oppressive systems.”
Conclusion
Dr. Jonathan M. Lassiter’s insights into the whiteness mindset, the importance of collectivism, and the need for cultural humility provide a framework for understanding the complexities of race and identity in our society today. His book, How I Know Why White People Are Crazy and Other Stories, is not just a memoir but a call to action for readers to engage more deeply with these critical issues.
For those interested in exploring these themes further, Dr. Lassiter’s book is available now, and you can find more of his work at jonathanmlassiter.com
Editor’s Note: At a moment when the once vaunted model of responsible journalism is overwhelmingly the play thing of self-serving billionaires and their corporate scribes, alternatives of integrity are desperately needed, and ScheerPost is one of them. Please support our independent journalism by contributing to our online donation platform, Network for Good, or send a check to our new PO Box. We can’t thank you enough, and promise to keep bringing you this kind of vital news.
You can also make a donation to our PayPal or subscribe to our Patreon.