Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

English

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

Colorism is a warped mirror image problem. A mirror is anything we refer to, consciously or not, for feedback about ourselves. A mirror is warped to the extent that it disempowers or disenfranchises those reflected in it. Speculative mirrors expose the distortion of warped mirrors by revealing positive or subversive alternatives. Speculative mirrors help us conceive of theories that resist harmful ideology. Newly aware of the distortion of warped mirrors and newly equipped with the tool of speculative mirrors, we may choose to engage in self-reflection—the process of composing one's own affective and empowering or tactical self-concept. Projecting one's self-reflection to a public can spark speculation or serve as a speculative mirror for others, perpetuating the healing process.

Date

6-21-2018

Committee Chair

Weinstein, Susan

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.4632

Available for download on Thursday, June 19, 2025

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