Subaltern knowledge Flashcards
(24 cards)
Who is the author of the concept of Subaltern knowledge?
Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak
What does ‘Subaltern’ refer to in Spivak’s writing?
It refers to groups that are socially, politically, and geographically outside of the hegemonic power structure.
True or False: Spivak believes that Subaltern individuals can speak for themselves.
False
Fill in the blank: Spivak’s essay ‘Can the Subaltern Speak?’ critiques the __________ of Western intellectuals.
representation
What is one main argument in Spivak’s discussion of Subaltern knowledge?
That the voices of the Subaltern are often marginalized and cannot be fully articulated within dominant discourses.
What does Spivak suggest is necessary to understand Subaltern knowledge?
A critical examination of the power dynamics involved in representation.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following does Spivak argue is a barrier to Subaltern voices being heard? A) Language, B) Education, C) Both A and B
C) Both A and B
What role does colonial history play in Spivak’s analysis of Subaltern knowledge?
It shapes the context in which Subaltern voices are silenced and misrepresented.
True or False: Spivak advocates for a universal voice for all marginalized groups.
False
In what way does Spivak’s work intersect with feminist theory?
It highlights the specific challenges faced by women in Subaltern contexts.
What is the significance of the term ‘strategic essentialism’ in Spivak’s work?
It refers to a temporary and tactical use of identity politics by marginalized groups to unify and gain representation.
Fill in the blank: Spivak argues that the Subaltern cannot be __________ in the same ways as dominant groups.
represented
What is Spivak’s stance on the role of the intellectual in relation to the Subaltern?
Intellectuals should listen to and amplify Subaltern voices rather than speak for them.
Multiple Choice: Which concept does Spivak challenge in her writing? A) Post-colonialism, B) Modernism, C) Feminism, D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What does Spivak mean by ‘the politics of location’?
It refers to the understanding that knowledge is situated and influenced by one’s social position.
True or False: According to Spivak, all marginalized groups have the same experiences and challenges.
False
How does Spivak view the relationship between power and knowledge?
She views it as intertwined, where knowledge production is influenced by power dynamics.
What is one criticism of Spivak’s work regarding Subaltern knowledge?
Some argue that it can be overly theoretical and lacks practical solutions for Subaltern communities.
Fill in the blank: The Subaltern’s inability to speak is often linked to their __________ in society.
marginalization
What does Spivak advocate for in terms of Subaltern representation?
For a more nuanced understanding and acknowledgment of Subaltern experiences without oversimplification.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a focus of Spivak’s analysis? A) Gender, B) Race, C) Technology, D) Class
C) Technology
What is the implication of Spivak’s work for social justice movements?
It emphasizes the need for inclusive representation and listening to diverse voices within movements.
True or False: Spivak’s ideas suggest that all forms of knowledge are equally valid.
False
What is the purpose of Spivak’s interrogation of Western narratives?
To reveal how these narratives often erase or distort Subaltern perspectives.
