We Become What We Normalize

In the age of divisive and explosive cultural, religious, and political rhetoric that often plays out in social media, silence and complicity are common responses. When ideas borne out of reactivity – like demonizing women, migrants, and critical race theory – are shouted from the highest platforms and go unchallenged, we perpetuate and contribute to harm. Author David Dark challenges readers to exercise discernment, examine power, practice critical thinking, and avoid the reactionary impulse to join a bellowing crowd for survival’s sake. In "We Become What We Normalize," the acclaimed public intellectual wields a sharp critique of Whiteness, privilege, and authority that ensures the continuation of dysfunctional systems and institutions.

This book is an essential read, especially as Americans approach yet another tenuous political election cycle. There are voices of dissent from all sides of various issues, and most people who do not feel strongly about a concern are often voiceless and unheard. Whether fueled by indifference or anxiety, the decision to refrain from engaging in difficult but necessary conversations allows harm and violence to prevail. When individuals recognize their agency to interrupt deleterious power-over gatekeeping and gaslighting, we can change fear- and shame-based discourse to focus on our collective thriving. There is hope that by pondering Dark’s words, some of us may harness the courage and “authentic humanness” necessary to overcome systemic evils.