From critical whiteness studies to a critical study of whiteness: restoring criticality in critical whiteness studies

Abstract

ABSTRACT This theoretical article critically reflects on critical whiteness studies (CWS), particularly addressing the critique that CWS does not have racial theory and therefore cannot be considered a theoretical framework in which to analyse race. Reflecting on existing literature that interrogates whiteness in teacher education; we contend that to centre racial justice in education research a critical study of whiteness must be employed, drawing from the work of scholars of Colour. Therefore, we provide a variety of transdisciplinary theories from critical scholars and scholars of Colour – from conflict theory to racial psychoanalysis – to undergird the analytic framework of CWS. We also offer implications of a critical study of whiteness approach to education research, hoping that it not only combats whiteness in society and education but changes the way we conduct research.