Justice, Equality, and Moral resistance: A philosophical study of racism in Maya Angelou’s literature
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64171/JAES.1.2.92-96Keywords:
Justice, Equality, Moral Resistance, Racism, Maya Angelou, Human Dignity, Voice, IdentityAbstract
The themes of justice, equality, and moral resistance in Maya Angelou’s works are examined in this essay from a philosophical standpoint. It contends that in addition to being autobiographical, Angelou’s writings are profoundly moral and provide a potent critique of racism as a system that deprives people of equality and human dignity. The study demonstrates how racism functions in daily life through discrimination, segregation, and internalized oppression by extensively analysing I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. The study emphasizes how justice in Angelou’s writing is linked to lived experiences, emotional challenges, and the pursuit of identity and self-worth in addition to legal fairness. The study also looks at how equality is portrayed as a moral requirement that calls for respect, acknowledgment, and the growth of human potential. The connection of race and gender is revealed in Angelou’s depiction of Black femininity, demonstrating how various types of oppression impact people’s lives. Her transition from quiet to voice is examined as a potent example of moral resistance at the same time. By taking back her voice and sharing her narrative, Angelou confronts injustice, upholds her dignity, and turns personal suffering into societal consciousness. The study links Angelou’s literary works with more general discussions of justice and human rights by drawing on ideas from influential philosophers. It comes to the conclusion that her writing offers a significant foundation for comprehending racism as a moral and social issue. In the end, the article makes the case that Angelou’s works advocate for a more compassionate and inclusive conception of justice that honours equality, dignity, and voice in everyday human life.
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