Racial Resentment in the Political Mind

Book excerpt: A thought-provoking look at how racial resentment, rather than racial prejudice alone, motivate a growing resistance among whites to improve the circumstances faced by racial minorities. In Racial Resentment in the Political Mind, Darren W. Davis and David C. Wilson explore the idea that racial resentment, rather than simply racial prejudice alone, is the basis for the growing resistance among whites toward efforts to improve the circumstances faced by minorities. The authors argue that there is a growing sentiment among whites that they are "losing-out" and "being cut in line" by Black people and other minorities, as reflected in an emphasis on diversity and inclusion, multiculturalism, trigger warnings, and political correctness, an increase in African Americans occupying powerful positions, and the election of Barack Obama. The culprits, as many white people see it, are undeserving people of color, who are perceived to benefit unfairly from, and take advantage of, resources that come at whites' expense. This rewarding of unearned resources is seen as a challenge to the status quo. Yet, as Davis and Wilson reveal, such reactions may not stem only from racial prejudice or hatred; instead, they may be a defensive posture, resulting from threats to whites' sense of justice, entitlement, and status. Their research finds racial resentment, stemming from beliefs about justice, fairness, and deservingness makes ordinary citizens appear racist. Informative and thought-provoking, Racial Resentment in the Political Mind adds a much-needed dimension to a timely topic.