Though both terms are frequently mentioned in conversation, they signify something completely different. Having a clear understanding of these definitions can help us make informed decisions in our social and political interactions.
Privilege refers to unearned advantages that are granted to a select group of individuals. It may include access to resources and opportunities which would otherwise be unavailable to others.
What is Privilege?
Privilege is a social, economic and psychological advantage or status granted to certain groups of people due to their membership in certain social identities. These identities can be based on factors such as race, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, ability status sexuality age and education level.
People of privilege often expect to be able to access resources with little effort. For instance, they may assume that a first-aid kit will come complete with a “flesh-colored” Band-Aid or that grocery stores will carry food options that reflect the cultural traditions of most white people.
Although this may be true for many, it does not guarantee fairness to all. Poor black people may lack access to resources like schools or job opportunities and thus are more vulnerable to discrimination or harm due to racial prejudice.
Therefore, it is essential to have conversations with people of diverse backgrounds and pay close attention to their stories. Doing so can help us comprehend how privilege may influence their lives and how best to assist them.
Privilege can be defined in many ways, but typically refers to an unearned advantage that comes at the expense of other groups. For instance, white people in America enjoy certain privileges that are denied black people and other people of color.
These advantages are determined by the social, economic and psychological status of members of a dominant social group. These privileges may include financial benefits, political power or other resources.
The privileged group may enjoy a higher standard of living and more access to public services, such as better hospitals or schools.
It is also essential to consider how a person’s privilege intersects with their identity. For instance, someone who is gay may have different privileges than white people and a lower standard of living as well as less access to resources.
What is Entitlement?
Entitlement is the process of securing property-specific approvals that make zoning ordinance reality. This enables owners or developers to begin development on their land according to their highest and best use in mind.
Entitlements are often an essential step in developing a site, and they can be challenging to obtain if there is opposition from neighbors or other community groups. In some cases, it may take years before your final project is approved and completed.
In addition to planning and zoning approvals, the local municipality may need to give their consent before construction can begin. Whether the property is residential, commercial or mixed-use, each type of development has its own set of conditions that must be fulfilled before permission can be granted for development to move forward.
For instance, if a development plans to construct a road onto the subject property, it must go through both city and county road commission permitting processes. Furthermore, any necessary public easements from neighboring property owners must also be secured.
If a neighborhood does not approve of the proposed development, they have the right to request its removal from the development plan by filing an official request with planning and zoning officials. Unfortunately, this can be a lengthy process which could take years before any action is taken by these departments.
However, the entitlement process is an integral component of planning and zoning regulations; thus, it’s essential that you comprehend its nuances. It may seem intimidating at first glance, so do your best to stay organized and knowledgeable throughout this intricate procedure.
Another distinction between entitlement and privilege is that a privilege has been earned through hard work and dedication, while an entitlement is something granted to you through luck. A sense of entitlement can be unhealthy and lead to negative outcomes in your life; however, with proper guidance and support you can learn how to manage it better.
What is the Difference Between the Two?
The distinction between entitlement and privilege is that entitlement refers to a legal right or protection, while privilege refers to an advantage in social relationships. Privileged groups enjoy numerous advantages by being affiliated with the dominant side of power systems, such as access to education, mental health services and medical care, plus greater comfort levels during interpersonal contact.
People without the advantage of privileged status must often strive hard in order to be recognized, hired or rewarded in various situations. People of color are less likely to be employed or rewarded at work; they also experience disproportionate disciplinary outcomes in schools and other institutions even when meeting all other eligibility requirements (Macintosh, 2014).
Entitlement has become a weaponized term in partisan politics, particularly identity-based ones that disparage one group for their advantages. According to Oxford English Dictionary, the term ‘entitlements’ dates back to 1945 and is predominantly North American in origin.
It has become a term to refer to unearned advantages based on race, gender or other identity. Examples include a certain job, college acceptance rates, housing options and social settings.
Unearned advantages may be bestowed upon individuals by individuals, or they may be the result of a situation in which groups were not discriminated against or excluded based on gender, race or other status. No matter its source, it would not be fair to equate that benefit with a right or privilege.
It is essential to recognize that these advantages have not been earned. Ultimately, individuals must take responsibility for their power and privilege in order to change them.
Furthermore, they must understand that the privileges granted them can be taken away at any time if they don’t fulfill their contracts and responsibilities. Becoming aware of this can help reduce stress and resentment in the long run.
How Can We Help?
As we watch the coronavirus spread around the world, it can be easy to feel helpless. But we can take control of our situation by doing the right thing at the right time and doing what needs doing. There are plenty of ways you can contribute – from charitable donations and phone calls – and the best part is that doing so is free and enjoyable! Here are some ideas for getting started: you don’t even need to wear your finest while helping out your community meaningfully; if you have the time and desire, even do some local service with those in need right in your own backyard!
