By Herbert J. Gans (Click here to view the entire issue) I agree with Mr. America that the United States is a large complex multi-racial society that's competing internationally less than optimally, and that to improve overall performance, we need to provide more than palliative remedies. However, I do not see how reparations will solve these or related problems. I believe … [Read more...] about “Reparations Versus Economic Integration” by Herbert J. Gans (September-October 1994 P&R Issue)
Symposium Responses
“Focus on Self-interest, Not Shame” by Billy J. Tidwell (October-November 1994 P&R Issue)
By Billy J. Tidwell (Click here to view the entire P&R issue) I want to avoid oversimplifying a matter as complex as the reparations question. Further, I am not inclined to repudiate categorically Dr. America's positions. However, a few brief points should be made, by way of elucidating key areas of agreement and equally important disagreements between our … [Read more...] about “Focus on Self-interest, Not Shame” by Billy J. Tidwell (October-November 1994 P&R Issue)
The Reparations Question (July-August 1994 P&R Issue)
(Click here to view the entire P&R issue) How to make white America comprehend and come to grips with the legacy of slavery? Is this a necessary precondition dealing with, and perhaps ending, current institutionalized racism, segregated housing, school and employment patterns, and the prejudiced attitudes and behavior of individuals? A deeply felt strand of thought … [Read more...] about The Reparations Question (July-August 1994 P&R Issue)
Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
(Click here to view the entire P&R issue) The question "Is racism permanent?" resembles a Zen koan, one of those provocative questions the master would pose to the disciple. If the student quickly answered either yes or no, the master would give a brusque reply, signaling that the neophyte had failed to ponder the matter deeply. In our case, while the dominant (white) … [Read more...] about Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
Early on, I believed that were we to rid the world of railroad tracks, "racism" would disappear. The daily crossing to "the other side of town" to receive a Catholic schooling was an education in itself. I failed to understand "racism" upon graduating from middle school, when my mother offered her prophetic wisdom that my white Catholic school friends would abandon me for other … [Read more...] about Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
