Perceptions along the Power Axis: A Cognitive Residue of Inter-Racial Encounters

Racial terms used in white & black American English are examined as they relate to social position & social power. White labels typically refer to physical attributes -- skin color & hair texture. Black terms also point out physical characteristics, but are mapped on evaluations of attitude. In terms of social structure, it is seen that white terms objectify blacks: black terms carry a connotation of the degree of power that the white has over the black. "Signifying" is described as a mechanism which leaves direct confrontation on a personal subject up to the addressee, thus avoiding a power struggle. An attitude of superficial submission is so much a part of traditional black culture in America that terms exist referring specifically to such submissive actions, such as "tommin." Similarly, labels exist for those who have allowed this facade to become the person -- eg, "oreo." These social attitudes & behavior have become very important in modern racial consciousness raising. T. Lamb.