Page 15 - Here and Now – Apr 2024

Colour and erroneous rationale

Pigmentocracy and other discriminatory practices, based on race, gender, religion, language,
class, varna-caste, region, and sexual orientation, share commonalities in their underlying

ideology and beliefs. These beliefs are maintained and perpetuated through a
'structure', which includes social systems such as caste, and patriarchy,
institutions, political structure, and the state. Marx argued that the
superstructure reflects the interests of the ruling class such as the varna-
caste ideology and gender discrimination.

In everyday life, people make theoretical frames, beliefs, and
assumptions about ‘human beings’ and ‘lesser human beings’. They
believe that some are human beings and others are lesser human beings to a

certain degree. These beliefs are supported by religion and mythology, which are
interpreted, modified, and distorted to avoid resistance from the ‘lesser humans.’

For example, creating iconography of villains and dubious characters who are dark skinned; and
fair/ligher skinned protagonists having a glow, radiance around them. The ‘lesser human beings’
are to be tolerated by those who consider themselves superior, and those who become
subservient must be given rewards or fringe benefits when they are obedient and comply. For
example, in a village ceremony, Valmikis (dark-skinned, erstwhile untouchable) can eat only
after the so-called higher castes. Just like ‘coloured’ children allowed to play soccer only when
‘fair skinned’ children have finished playing in one Western country.

The smell of Pigmentocracy in Thought-Feeling-Behaviour

Pigmentocracy is a complex process that involves internalization, where individuals and
organizations contribute to shaping individuals and teams. This internalization occurs in various
aspects of society, such as governing boards, managerial teams, work teams, cafeterias,
washrooms, and recreation areas. The process begins with the 'epidermalization of inferiority',
where individuals are made to feel or become convinced of their unfitness and feel inferior in
their skin. This leads to the desire to become lighter-skinned, which represents anxiety and the
desire to become the privileged 'other'.

pg. 14