45 pages • 1 hour read
White Guilt: How Blacks and Whites Together Destroyed the Promise of the Civil Rights Era (P.S.)
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Book Brief
208
Book • Nonfiction
2000s
2006
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
White Guilt: How Blacks and Whites Together Destroyed the Promise of the Civil Rights Era by Shelby Steele examines the concept of white guilt and its impact on race relations in the US post-Civil Rights movement. Through anecdotes and historical recounts, Steele argues that white guilt led to misplaced social programs and a new form of subtle white supremacy, resulting in a cultural decline and persistent racial issues. The book discusses racism and systemic inequities extensively.
Informative
Contemplative
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
5,679 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
White Guilt by Shelby Steele presents a provocative analysis of race relations in America, examining white guilt and its societal implications. Reviews praise Steele's bold perspective and articulate prose, but some criticize a lack of empirical evidence and perceived one-sidedness. Despite mixed reactions, the book succeeds in igniting important conversations.
Who Should Read White Guilt?
A reader who would enjoy White Guilt by Shelby Steele is likely interested in race relations, historical and cultural analysis, and social justice. They may also appreciate books like The Content of Our Character by Steele or The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. Du Bois, which delve into similar themes of race and identity in America.
5,679 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Dick Gregory
Dick Gregory
A prominent civil rights activist from the late 1960s, whose approach is frequently contrasted with other civil rights figures and influences Steele's changing views over time.
John
John
A White college peer of Steele's who represents the youthful rejection of conservative values in favor of the counterculture movement during the 1960s.
Malcolm X
Malcolm X
A renowned Black civil rights leader and minister known for his strong stance on personal responsibility and skepticism regarding White assistance, whom Steele cites as a model of genuine militancy.
Betty
Betty
A Black poet and English professor who becomes a subject of critique for her views on ethnic literature, symbolizing Steele's views on the perceived shortcomings of progressive academia.
Maureen Dowd
Maureen Dowd
A White New York Times columnist known for her critical response to conservative judicial opinions, whom Steele uses to illustrate his perspective on liberal motivations and White guilt.
208
Book • Nonfiction
2000s
2006
Adult
18+ years
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