The Truly Disadvantaged: The Inner City, the Underclass, and Public Policy
This eminent sociologist has written a complex and provocative analysis of black inner-city poverty. Eschewing both liberal and conservative orthodoxies, Wilson argues that the substantial increase in urban poverty over the past few decades has not been caused by either contemporary racism or an internalized "culture of poverty" value system. Rather it has been the result of major shifts in the economic system, as jobs have left the urban manufacturing sector for a decentralized service sector. Because race-specific policies like affirmative action have tended to benefit the black middle class, only holistic policies available to all Americans who need them can reverse this cycle of poverty. Massive job training programs and more child care would provide a start. Highly recommended for major public and college libraries. Anthony O. Edmonds, History Dept., Ball State Univ., Muncie, Ind.Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.