But it's clear that Obama also is running for an equally important unelected office, in the province of the popular imagination - the 'Magic Negro.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The quote suggests Obama is campaigning for an symbolic role based on racial stereotypes rather than just elected office.
- In plain terms
- Obama is seen as fitting a specific racial stereotype in the public mind.
- What can you take from it?
- Public perception can reduce politicians to racial caricatures.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do stereotypes shape political hopes?
- What roles do voters assign to candidates?
Another view
The term used is highly controversial and offensive.
More from Barack Obama
I am excited. Of course, I'm endorsing Senator Obama. He has made that decision and I think this is an exciting time for the country. It brings a new voice in …
Permalink to quote #73 Indeed, Barack Obama has exceptional qualities and deserves kudos for his achievement. He is genteel, articulate, poised and charming. He is a Harvard-educated…
Permalink to quote #75 I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy. I mean, that's a storybook, man.
Permalink to quote #72
Related quotes
If you think back to the Swift Boat debacle of 2004, the surface issue was John Kerry's honesty and bravery as a sailor in Vietnam. Far more powerful, however,…
Joshua Micah MarshallJoshua Micah Marshall quote #3 I would be unelectable. I'm an atheist. As we all know, that is something people won't accept.
Ron ReaganRon Reagan quote #1 Race does not need to be the natural dividing line on important national issues because many indigenous people and organisations have opposed the Bill. We can …
Richard NaiduRichard Naidu quote #1