Two Nations - Softcover

This is one of the most powerful books I've ever read. The author is a professor at Queens
college and bases a lot of the material in the book on his experiences and conversations
with his students. Hacker manages to really capture what it feels like to experience racism
in America and it kind of amazes me that a white writer is able to do this. The book reminded
me of many painful experiences I've gone through and will continue to go through in this
country and he tries really hard to make sense of it all. I think on some levels, he succeeds.
It would be helpful if this book were mandatory reading for young Americans of every
race.

"Challenging...The real value of this book is in Mr. Hacker's calm, analytical eye, his unblinking view of American history and his unwillingness to accept cant and 'common sense' as facts."
--Tom Wicker
The New York Times Book Review
Why does race remain America's deepest and most enduring division? Despite all efforts to increase understanding and expand opportunities, black and white Americans still lead separate lives, continually marked by tension and hostility.
In his bestselling analysis of a divided society, Andrew Hacker explains why racial disparities persist. He clarifies the meaning of racism, conflicting theories of superiority and equality, as well as such subtle factors as guilt and sexual fears. Using completely updated statistical data to paint the stark picture of racial inequality, Two Nations depicts the realities of family life, of income and employment, as well as current controversies affecting education, politics, and crime, including the role of race in the Simpson trial. This startling look at the facts that so many choose to ignore is balanced by the voices of African Americans, and shows how race influences the attitudes and behavior of all Americans. Reasoned, accurate, and devastating, Two Nations demonstrates, better than emotional appeals can, how this great and dividing issue has defined America's history and, as Hacker forecasts it, will play a pivotal role in the coming century.
"Provocatively enlightening...Probably the most candid book on present day American racism to be written in the 20th century."
--Claude Brown
Author of Manchild in the Promised Land
"A telling portrait of American life...of the very different ways the two races live...The numbers are stark and irrefutable."
--The Wall Street Journal

EXPANDED AND UPDATED EDITION -- Including a new chapter on the O.J. trial