Action Quote by Orlando Patterson

“Placing a time limit on affirmative action would in all likelihood blunt the orchestrated politics of controversy that now bedevils it. And thinking about phasing it into a class-based entitlement program may at long last bring Americans around to a consideration of the growing inequality that…” quote by Orlando Patterson — Download Open image

“Placing a time limit on affirmative action would in all likelihood blunt the orchestrated politics of controversy that now bedevils it. And thinking about phasing it into a class-based entitlement program may at long last bring Americans around to a consideration of the growing inequality that threatens the harmony of our democracy far more than the alarmist cry of 'racial division.'”

Orlando Patterson

About This Quote

Source Article: The Atlantic, 2020

Limiting affirmative action by time could reduce politicization, shifting focus to class-based inequality.

In simple terms: Time limits could reduce controversy, emphasizing class inequality.

Key Takeaway

Consider class-based solutions over race-focused policies.

Themes

politics inequality policy race relations

Mood

analytical critical

Type

policy theoretical

When to use this quote

legislative reform
public debate
education admissions
social programs

Key Concepts

public policy social justice political theory

Questions to Reflect On

Can class-based policies address racial disparities?
What are potential unintended consequences?

A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex systemic issues.

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Action Affirmative Affirmative action Alarmists Americans Consideration Blunt Class Consideration Controversy Cry Democracy Division Entitlement Entitlement programs Growing Growing Inequality Harmony Inequality Inequality Threatens Lasts Likelihood Limits Long May Politics Politics Controversy Program Racial Division Thinking Time Time limit