Higher Ground - by Brian P Tilley (Hardcover)

About the Book

The author analyzes the history and politics of racism from a humanistic, moral perspective. This analysis shows shared moral conviction--a higher ground--can lead to meaningful action on racism.

Book Synopsis

As quickly as an American, anti-racist consensus formed in the wake of George Floyd's death, it seemed to evaporate under the pressures of a highly polarized political system. How do we escape the trap of polarization to reconstruct a consensus for meaningful action against racism? In this book, the lessons of history, problems understanding modern racism, and American political parties' approaches to racism are analyzed from a person-centered, psychological perspective. The author prioritizes arguments and research findings that emphasize humanity and carry "moral weight: " the perspective must demonstrate how racism violates our fundamental sense of right and wrong. The author's analysis of research and history concludes that morality, humanity, and racism are interrelated and mutually influential. The author shows that moral conviction against racism increases the likelihood of meaningful change; this conviction is nurtured through a deeper understanding of the human costs of racism for all Americans. This is the path to higher ground where Americans can unite to pursue true equality.

Review Quotes

"Brian P. Tilley guides the reader through the historical and contemporary evidence of racism with extensive research from across the social sciences. This book clarifies the important difference between interpersonal and systemic racism - and makes the case that focusing on the former can make it impossible to address the latter. Tilley clearly explains how a commitment to "colorblindness" is one main impediment to reducing racism in American society today. Higher Ground encourages Americans to understand the reality of American racism by being honest about our differences and focusing on righting moral wrongs. Though our politics often stand in the way of seeing racism clearly (and contribute to deepening racial inequality), an empathetic turn in American culture might allow us to move forward as one nation. Tilley serves as a model of empathy and encouragement for a society that desperately needs a new direction." --Lilliana Hall Mason, Johns Hopkins University

Brian P. Tilley guides the reader through the historical and contemporary evidence of racism with extensive research from across the social sciences. This book clarifies the important difference between interpersonal and systemic racism - and makes the case that focusing on the former can make it impossible to address the latter. Tilley clearly explains how a commitment to "colorblindness" is one main impediment to reducing racism in American society today. Higher Ground encourages Americans to understand the reality of American racism by being honest about our differences and focusing on righting moral wrongs. Though our politics often stand in the way of seeing racism clearly (and contribute to deepening racial inequality), an empathetic turn in American culture might allow us to move forward as one nation. Tilley serves as a model of empathy and encouragement for a society that desperately needs a new direction.

About the Author

Brian P. Tilley is professor of psychology and serves as Chair of the Counseling Psychology and Social Work Department at National University in San Diego, California