I couldn't agree more with this sentiment. For example, the Founders of the US were men of the Enlightenment. They also owned slaves. Clearly, the reality lagged behind the theory. But they were still progressive thinkers and were striving towards the good. Their terrible blind spot of racism doesn't negate the value of their good ideas. In fact, to think so is more or less the ad hominem fallacy - thinking that ideas become tainted or invalidated by the behavior or imperfections of those holding them. But truth is truth.

You know, "Hitler was a vegetarian". If I had a grated carrot for every time someone said that to me!

I don't see Critical Race Theory as conferring identity, or a way of dismissing valuable ideas, but as a framework, a lens with which to view history with an urgently needed new perspective.

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I appreciate your careful logic, structured arguments and willingness to engage with weighty ideas. I find it valuable and nourishing brain food.