Becoming Quote by George Packer
“In a sense, whites who were always sort of the unthinking majority who didn't think of themselves necessarily as one among many interest groups but is simply the dominant group, now as whites become - are close to becoming a minority of Americans, are becoming a political interest group. And that's what Donald Trump is playing to. And it's a really dangerous, volatile game.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America by George Packer, 2013
White Americans, once the dominant majority, are becoming a distinct political minority, making them a target for political manipulation like Donald Trump’s strategy, which is risky and volatile.
In simple terms: Whites are shifting from majority to minority, becoming a political group.
Recognize shifting demographics and avoid divisive politics.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- election campaigns
- policy debates
- community organizing
- media analysis
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does demographic change affect political power?
- What safeguards can prevent volatile politics?
The transformation may be slower or less uniform than suggested.