In Discrimination and Disparities, economist Thomas Sowell probes the causes and consequences of discrimination in America. Focusing on disparities between different races, sexes, and groups in income, education, housing, occupation—and just about any other measure you can think of—Sowell offers a comprehensive look at how discrimination has played out over time. He also provides thoughtful analysis of potential solutions to these enduring problems. An essential read for anyone interested in understanding the sources of inequality in America today, Discrimination and Disparities is an eye-opening account from one of our most respected public intellectuals.
For who is this book for ?
Discrimination and Disparities is written by economist Thomas Sowell for the general public. It provides an overview of discrimination in America, with a focus on disparities between different races, sexes, and groups in income, education, housing, occupation etc.
Pros :
- Well written and comprehensive
- Eye opening account of inequality in America
- Respectful analysis of potential solutions
Cons :
- The author does not shy away from discussing controversial topics, which some readers may find uncomfortable.
- The book is dense and may be challenging for casual readers.
- Some of the data presented can be difficult to interpret without a background in economics.
Learn more about the author
A Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Thomas Sowell is one of America’s most influential public intellectuals. He has published widely in both academic journals and general interest magazines, including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Newsweek and Commentary.
Reader Reviews
“This book is a tour de force of rational thought about an emotionally charged topic. Dr. Sowell pulls no punches in his analysis of discrimination in America, but he does so with the cold hard facts that only an economist can muster. If you are looking for a clearheaded understanding of one root cause of disparities among different groups in our society, look no further.”
“This book is a scholarly and comprehensive treatment of the issue of discrimination in America. Sowell marshals an impressive amount of data to make his case that disparities between different races, sexes and groups are due largely to factors other than discrimination.”
“This book provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of discrimination in America. Sowell’s insights are eye-opening and thought provoking.”
“Discrimination and Disparities is a tour de force of data, analysis and insight. Thomas Sowell marshals an extraordinary range of information to demonstrate convincingly that discrimination continues to be a major factor in producing economic disparities among American citizens.”
