Getting Under the Skin of "Diversity": Searching for the Color-Blind Ideal
Far too often in my reading on the topics of diversity and race preferences in higher education, I come across books that are exercises in academic mumbo jumbo or a series of ad hominem attacks between cardboard covers. If we are to move beyond race and racism, what we need are more writers that are interested in bringing clarity to the debate. In this respect, Larry Purdy's book is a breath of fresh air. Purdy counters the arguments of the diversity crowd with clear, concise and convincing language. At the same time, he puts to rest unfair charges that to oppose race preferences is to oppose access to equal opportunity. The book is well researched and well argued. It is also eminently readable and accessible to those at all levels of the debate. This is a book I will display in my library and reference again and again. --Joseph C. Phillips (actor, writer, teacher, syndicated columnist)There quite simply exists no argument against the diversity fetish in higher education more lucid, readable, and conclusive than Larry Purdy's book. It has been a great help to me in my own work, and should be in the canon of readings on racial preferences. --John H. McWhorter (author and Senior Fellow at The Manhattan Institute)If our courts share the decency of most Americans, Purdy's well-documented research will move them to rule that ny race-based college admissions criteria cannot stand constitutional muster. --Walter E. Williams (John M. Olin Distinguished Professor of Economics, George Mason University)