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About this quote

What does it mean?
Rising inequality in the 1990s nearly caused a demagogic immobilization of racism.
In plain terms
High inequality in the 1990s almost triggered racism mobilization.
What can you take from it?
Watch for political mobilization during periods of high inequality.

Where it applies

  • political analysis
  • historical reflection
  • risk assessment

Putting it to work

  • Monitor inequality
  • Prevent mobilization

Questions to consider

  • When does inequality turn political?
  • How do we stop mobilization?

Another view

Racism may mobilize without specific economic triggers.

More from William Julius Wilson

  1. I am not an Ivory Tower intellectual.

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  2. I strongly believe in fighting inequality.

    Permalink to quote #20
  3. Good research clearly indicates that Americans would support affirmative action programs that capture the idea of equal opportunity.

    Permalink to quote #17

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