Clarence Thomas's views on affirmative action advocates were shaped by his personal struggles and experiences with discrimination. Growing up in the segregated South, he faced significant challenges, which informed his perspectives on race and government intervention. His belief in self-reliance and opposition to affirmative action stem from his experiences of being viewed not solely as a product of diversity, but as an individual. As a Supreme Court Justice, he has consistently critiqued affirmative action policies, arguing they can perpetuate racial divisions rather than promote true equality, showcasing a deeply complex relationship with his past.