The Ironies of Affirmative Action: Politics, Culture, and Justice in America

by John David Skrentny

Book Overview

Affirmative action has been fiercely debated for more than a quarter of a century, producing much partisan literature, but little serious scholarship and almost nothing on its cultural and political origins. The Ironies of Affirmative Action is the first book-length, comprehensive, historical account of the development of affirmative action. Analyzing both the resistance from the Right and the support from the Left, Skrentny brings to light the unique...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0226761789
• ISBN13: 9780226761787
• Release Date: May 1996
• Publisher: University of Chicago Press
• Length: 326 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A fascinating look at civil rights development in the US

John David Skrentny has written a profound and deeply enlightening look at the development of affirmative action. His examination of the co-option of the race and quota issues by the right wing in the early 1970's is a must read for any student of history, politics, and American culture. A gifted and highly readable author, Mr. Skrentny takes the reader on a cook's tour of the social and political development of affirmative action. An excellent compoanion volume to Hugh Graham's civil rights work. Highly recommended.