In the book "Unsheltered" by Barbara Kingsolver, the author explores the concept of race, particularly the idea that whiteness is not a natural state but rather a socially constructed idea rooted in privilege. This perspective suggests that the notion of being white is less about skin color and more about the societal advantages and power structures that come with it. Kingsolver emphasizes that these constructs shape how individuals perceive themselves and others in a complex social hierarchy.

By framing whiteness as a mental construct, Kingsolver invites readers to critically examine how privilege operates and affects social dynamics. It challenges the binary understanding of race and encourages a more nuanced conversation about identity, power, and societal roles. This reflection on privilege reinforces the idea that addressing inequality requires acknowledging the systemic nature of these constructions and their impact on marginalized groups.