The former oppressors do not feel liberated. On the contrary, they genuinely consider themselves to be oppressed

The former oppressors do not feel liberated. On the contrary, they genuinely consider themselves to be oppressed

In his seminal work "Pedagogy of the Oppressed," Brazilian educator and philosopher Paulo Freire delves into the complex dynamics of oppression and liberation. One of the key concepts he explores is the idea that the former oppressors do not feel liberated after the oppressed have risen up and challenged their power. On the contrary, they genuinely consider themselves to be oppressed.

Freire argues that oppression is not simply a one-way street, where the oppressors hold power over the oppressed. Rather, it is a system of relationships and structures that dehumanize both the oppressors and the oppressed. The oppressors may hold power and privilege, but they are also trapped in a cycle of dehumanization and alienation that prevents them from truly experiencing liberation.

One of the reasons why the former oppressors do not feel liberated is because their sense of self-worth and identity is tied to their position of power. When the oppressed challenge that power and demand their rights, the oppressors feel threatened and insecure. They may see themselves as victims of the oppressed, rather than as the ones who have perpetuated injustice and inequality.

Freire also argues that the oppressors are often unaware of their own oppression. They may believe that they are acting in their own self-interest, without realizing the harm they are causing to others. This lack of awareness can lead to a sense of victimhood and resentment when the oppressed demand justice and equality.

Furthermore, Freire suggests that true liberation can only be achieved through dialogue and mutual understanding between the oppressors and the oppressed. The oppressors must be willing to acknowledge their own complicity in the system of oppression and work towards dismantling it. Only then can they truly experience liberation and break free from the cycle of dehumanization.