Color Blind Seeing Beyond Race in a Race Obsessed World

At a time when Colin Powell is being discussed as a possible vice-presidential candidate for the Republican party, a growing segment of the population is asking whether racial prejudice has lost its power. But not so fast: In this startling, sharply insightful, and eye-opening book, Ellis Cose trains his practiced eye on the murky waters of race in America and looks at the acute differences, even hostility, in our perceptions of race exposed by the 0. J. Simpson trial, not to mention the controversial content of "The Bell Curve." In doing so he addresses whether it is possible for the United States to simply wipe the racial slate clean and surmount its racist past, or if color blindness may be just another name for denial.

In a world where it is often believed that lighter skin means higher status, money is the great equalizer, and education will set you free, "Color-Blind" brilliantly reveals why race may be a larger-and smaller-issue than many people think. With the keen observational powers of a professional journalist and the concrete solutions of a true visionary, Ellis Cose delivers his most powerful and important book to date."A standout, filled with keen and novel solutions to racial conflict. A thoughtful and inspiring book."--Dr. Alvin F. Poussaint, Harvard Medical School

"Cose argues convincingly that racism persists in America today for the very reason that too many Americans fail to acknowledge it and to actively work to break down the artificial boundaries that divide one human from another. In so doing, Cose...moves us one step closer to its end."--Senator Bill BradleyA

"A good primer for anyone who wants to see what has been going on with race relations throughthe eyes of a journalist who keeps a microscope on the subject."--Juan Williams, "Los Angeles Times"

"Accurately assesses the contradictory nature of U.S. race relations: they often get better and worse at the same time."--R. Z. Sheppard, "Time Magazine"

"A book this country desperately needs." "--New York Times Book Review"