Color of Man

by Robert Carl Cohen

A survey of the facts about skin color and its relation to prejudice

Genres: Nonfiction

109 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1968

Reviews

[Toni Latson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book up again after 20 years because my 7 year old son asked me why so many “white people” have blonde hair. My son-a light skinned multiracial kid who considers himself “gray”-has been making tons comments that have surprised me. I read this book when I was in my early 20’s. Since I recall it being pretty scientific in its explanations and felt it would be a good start to figuring out how to engage in these types of conversations with my son.

Now in my mid forties, I have noticed other things I like about this book. It was published in 1968–an extremely divisive time wrought with political corruption, assassination and extreme hate within the US. In many ways, it mirrors our time today. Yet...this book somehow transcends. Cohen (the author)stresses similarities and highlights the fact that race cannot be determined biologically from skeletal remains. He discusses ways in which oppression due to “color discrimination” as well as environmental factors lead to differences that some “scientists” and pundits still insist are biological in factor. He then zeros in on the historical and ongoing discrimination within the United States. Ultimately, he notes the obvious but oft overlooked fact—we are all part of the human race.

While he downplays the difference between chattel slavery and indentured service, he does a good job overall. In my own opinion, there is nothing wrong with us all accepting and embracing our physically differences while simultaneously realizing we are all from the same origin and need to help one another. Too bad so many people don’t seem to see that.

[Dusty Deal · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very hopeful product of its time. Kind of made me sad in light of recent events.