Week 8: Addressing Inequality Through Policy

Question 1

Anti-discrimination

Answer 1

• ban discrimination
• try to detect subtle forms of discrimination
• ensure that everyone is treated equally
• eliminate barriers faced by minorities

Question 2

Affirmative Action

Answer 2

• give extra advantage to traditionally disadvantaged
• try to address the effects of past discrimination
• take race as a factor to be considered
• break the cycle of discrimination (temporary)

Question 3

Affirmative Action Policies

- Employment and Schools

Answer 3

• President Johnson: requirements for agencies under contract with the government
• efforts to increase the number of minorities and females in jobs or ranks in which they are underrepresented
• efforts to increase the number of minorities and females in higher education
• requirements for goals and timetables

Question 4

Alternatives to Affirmative Action

Answer 4

• use of high school grades, instead of standardized test scores, for college admission
• ## affirmative action based on socioeconomic status

Question 5

What is more important in explain inequality today?

A) Race
B) Class
C) Combination of both

Answer 5

• Research shows there is significant RACIAL INEQUALITY independent of class inequality
• There is a declining, but continuing significance of RACE
• Minority middle class is less secure than White middle class: “last to be hired, first to be fired”
• Racial discrimination still exists