Diversity and Community in the Academy: Affirmative Action in Faculty Appointments

(Paperback)

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In the wake of court rulings that have forced university administrators to reevaluate affirmative action policies, this balanced, thoughtful book examines three typical defenses of those policies: that affirmative action compensates for past discrimination; that it provides role models and ensures diversity; and that it corrects for systemic bias against women and racial minorities. Wolf-Devine finds that none of these arguments justifies adopting affirmative action across the board, and she argues, contrary to most opponents of the policy, that some circumstances make affirmative action appropriate. Analyzing the cultural, economic, and political contexts in which affirmative action has been debated, she suggests ways to get around the current impasse over the issue without abandoning a commitment to social justice. The depth and balance of the book are enhanced by an appendix containing articles by noted legal expert George Rutherglen, distinguished philosopher James Rachels, and independent scholar Richard Rodriguez.

Reviews

Devine gives an excellent background on the checkered history of the 'Affirmative Action' Concept. -- Edward A. Lynch, Hollins University * Intern Philosophical Quarterly *
The analysis is written clearly and well documented with historic data and statistical notations. -- Claudia Highbaugh, Harvard Divinity School * Encounter *
A balanced, thoughtful treatment. * Academic Questions *

Author Bio

Celia Wolf-Devine is associate professor of philosophy at Stonehill College in Massachusetts. She is author of articles on affirmative action as well as a book on Descartes. Celia Wolf-Devine is associate professor of philosophy at Stonehill College in Massachusetts. She is author of articles on affirmative action as well as a book on Descartes.