The Promise of Whiteness

What is race-based hierarchy? The Promise of Whiteness focuses on the impact of the promise of “whiteness” upon American society in the past and future by examining its creation and evolution. Particular attention is given to the psychological needs met—and the fears, anxieties, and dissonance created by—the social construction of “whiteness”.

During this difficult time in our nation’s history, with the focus on “racial reckoning”, it is crucial that Americans understand when and how our “race-based hierarchy” came to be invented. The Promise of Whiteness: Its Past and Its Future explores the psycho-social impact of the promise of “whiteness” upon the past and present-day race relations in the United States. The “promise of whiteness”—which includes the “place”, “privilege” or advantages of whiteness, the “power” bestowed by whiteness, and the “protection” from punishment for violence toward blacks—is examined. Crucial to the book’s concept is a discussion of the psychological needs met by whiteness and the needs, fears, anxieties, and dissonance produced as well. Finally, the book questions if the “promise of whiteness” is still viable in America as it has evolved into a multiracial society, and recommends that Americans, as a nation, commit to an equal society for all members regardless of race or social class. This book expands on several chapters previously published in A Time for Change: How White Supremacy Ideology Harms All Americans.

Preface

Acknowledgments

Introduction

Chapter 1. The Creation of the Racial Hierarchy

Chapter 2. The Promise of Whiteness

Chapter 3. The Psychological Power of Whiteness

Chapter 4. Racially Induced Dissonance

Chapter 5. The Violation of the Promise

Chapter 6. “It Must Not Be Again”

Chapter 7. The Betrayal of the Promise

Chapter 8. The Diminishing Power of Whiteness

Chapter 9. A Changing America: Impact on the Promise

Chapter 10. America at the Crossroads

Conclusion: Healing the Wounds of Mythology

Bibliography

About the Author