Race and whiteness : A critical discourse analysis of teachers' understanding and attitudes concerning race

This thesis aims to examine secondary school teachers understanding concerning the terms race and whiteness, and how perceptions of the terms interrelates with the democratic values and duties assigned to the teachers of the Swedish educational system. Semi-structured qualitative research interviews were used to gather data and critical discourse analysis to process it. Results show that the terms race and whiteness respectively are intertwined with historical context, adding dimensions of utility and shortcomings when used. These dimensions are taking into consideration among the interviewed teachers and reflected upon. The thesis concludes that although the terms have given functions to explaining racism and structural injustice, consideration has to be made in respect to the Swedish historical context when used.