Panda Goes West

16. Jun, 2020

Interest Convergence

Derrick Bell, a professor of law and noted thought leader in the area of critical race theory claims the answer lies in interest convergence theory. Interest convergence suggest that subordinate groups will never have their differences fully recognized and embraced until the dominate group sees how those distinctions further their interests as well. Bell reminds us how interest convergence led to the Brown vs. Board of Education Supreme Court decision that desegregated public schools. While this landmark ruling did not end all segregation, it set the stage for a post-Cold War era where the USA realized its reputation in the rest of the world was taking a hit by Jim Crow laws.

Derrick Bell, a professor of law and noted thought leader in the area of critical race theory claims the answer lies in interest convergence theory. Interest convergence suggest that subordinate groups will never have their differences fully recognized and embraced until the dominate group sees how those distinctions further their interests as well.

Bell reminds us how interest convergence led to the Brown vs. Board of Education Supreme Court decision that desegregated public schools. While this landmark ruling did not end all segregation, it set the stage for a post-Cold War era where the USA realized its reputation in the rest of the world was taking a hit by Jim Crow laws.