Let's Talk About Race. (Be prepared: it's not what you think)

While many are still pondering the legitimacy and exponentially increasing popularity of the blog, news organizations are taking notice (I think it's also worth noting that I'm blogging about a blog). NPR published an article highlighting a particular blog and the growing buzz and controversy it has ignited. "Stuff White People Like", an ongoing list of "white" preferences and behaviors, had generated nearly 4 million hits (since the article was written, the count has reached well over 6 million) in its 2 month long existence as well as an immeasurable amount of controversy. Each post, an addition to the list (we're currently up to #78), takes a satirical stab at the white race through what the author says is a "scientific approach to highlight and explain stuff white people like." He goes on to say, "They are pretty predictable".

Clearly, in this case, the term "scientific approach" is used quite loosely and, perhaps, even sarcastically.

NPR reported that naysayers criticize the blog for being racist and endorsing stereotypes. Critics also argue that the author, Christian Lander, equates economic status with race. Meanwhile, according to comments found on the blog's "about" page, it also has an enormous following of individuals who praise its fearlessness and creativity.

A multitude of comments can be found on each post (more than 530 on the latest entry alone) praising, condemning, and even offering up suggestions for future additions to the list. Lander insists the blog is simply "good provocative fun" and actually captures many of his own behaviors.

In the February 26 airing of NPR's talk radio show, Talk of the Nation, listeners called in to profess their realization of being white (according to the listed characteristics) or suggest new items to be incorporated in the list. During the show, featuring Lander, the race of the author was not questioned as it often is on the blog itself. However, one might conclude that he is, in fact, a white man based on his comments and statements during the show.

At a time when race has, once again, become a prime topic in the media as a result of recent racially driven crimes (i.e. the Jenna Six case) and the presidential election, it is interesting to see the other side of that coin. Instead of the typical Black vs. White conflicts, we get a glimpse at a rare instance in which the racial card is playable by the latter.

Have a look at it and decide for yourself: Stuff White People Like

UPDATE: Lander has uploaded photos of himself on the blog today-check out the "photos" section of "Stuff White People Like" and complete the puzzle of perception on just who this guy is.