Discusses the pros and cons of affirmative action policy in this country, examining its history, its effects, and current problems, including the question of reverse discrimination.
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Discusses the pros and cons of affirmative action policy in this country, examining its history, its effects, and current problems, including the question of reverse discrimination.
Read Less
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Seller's Description:
Very Good. Great book! Mild shelf wear on cover, library stamps, no writing or markings in text. From School Library Journal: Grade 6 Up. An excellent, well-balanced introduction to the topic. Guernsey's description of the goals of the program is balanced by her inclusion of often-troubling arguments against it. The historical background explains the reasons for its creation and traces its evolution from Kennedy/Johnson-era executive orders through the legislation and court interpretations that have led the country to its current policies. Landmark events, such as the establishment of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and Supreme Court cases, such as Griggs v. Duke Power and the Bakke decision, are used to describe the policy's development. The benefits of affirmative action to women and minorities are discussed along with the criticisms, such as reverse discrimination and the accusation that it is degrading to individuals who benefit from its provisions. The list of organizations for further information and a relatively up-to-date bibliography are provided. A good introduction to a controversial topic, this book raises more questions than it answers, but it lays a sound foundation for readers who want to understand the debate and begin to form their own opinions. Jeffrey A. French, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, OH. Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc. From Kirkus Reviews: This thought-provoking addition to the Pro/Con series discusses affirmative-action policy in the US today. After defining affirmative action--a ``term used to describe techniques to remedy the effects of existing and past discrimination and to end such discrimination''--the author aptly explores not only the goals and rationale behind the concept, but also the controversies and problems resulting from its implementation. Readers will struggle with the complexities of the policy and especially the paradox of affirmative action in practice--how ``preferential treatment has often led to resentment and condescension, '' as well as instances of ``misplacement, '' e.g., when those given preferential treatment to attend top academic schools experience ``academic struggle, battered self-esteem, and ultimately a high dropout rate. '' This is a balanced view of competing worthwhile values: the redressing of historical wrongs, while attempting to treat everyone the same. (b&w photos, charts, graphs, notes, glossary, bibliography, index) (Nonfiction. 12-15) Copyright 1998, Kirkus Associates, LP.
