Since disciplinary power seems to apply the same rules to everyone, there seems to be little discrimination. But when the rules grew from contexts in which there was discrimination, the unstated assumptions carry those discriminatory contexts right along with the rules in present contexts. Further readings on institutional racism . The importance of telling the story of what racism feels like. The stories have been suppressed by the positivist concern for the neutral and unbiased position of scientific method.
Problem is, there is no unbiased perspective.
Critical race theory recognizes the importance of the narrative to bring the underlying assumptions to awareness, where the unstated assumptions can be held up to the false premises that have preserved them for so long. Further readings on critical race theory . There are many more theoretical pathways down which we could wander with this theme. But, for now, I've exceeded my 200 words, so we'll continue this as threaded discussions. At least this will give you some idea of what Susan and I mean about linking the basic concepts of discourse and fairness to the issues we explore.