The “white men of power” concept suggests that white males are generally given powerful positions in groups and are often found at the top of power hierarchies. I agree that this concept applies to today’s world in many ways. Even though we live in a very diverse area, a lot of business leaders still fit the description that the concept suggests: white males!
I think the concept is a stereotype and certainly doesn’t apply to every business, but most groups follow the pattern. The book suggests that most minorities report different work experiences, notably in hiring and promotions. I think that attests to the reason why the stereotype persists: we stereotype based on looks, race, ethnicity, clothes…And make assumptions on that person based on our learned stereotypes. We are likely to be quick to write off the possible talents and opportunities that a person can bring.
Just as a side note, I was listening to a podcast from the guy who made the movie Supersize Me and he was talking about an experiment he did, or one of his documentary friends did, where they applied for various jobs using fictitious “ethnic” names and then fictitious “white” names. Even though they sent the exact same resumes, the people with the white names received more callbacks than the people with the ethnic names. Just shows that it’s not only physical first impressions that can lead to stereotypes – even a name can cause a person to jump to conclusions!
I agree it can be a little more easier for a white person to gain employment. Often time people of color have to conform to fit into society. Personally I know that I can never go to a job interview unless my hair is straight. No matter how much people say everything is so diverse I know that I have to convert into this Eurocentric type of life style. I feel as is if I can never completely be myself especially since I moved to san jose.
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