Justice, Gender, and Affirmative Action

by Susan D. Clayton, Faye J. Crosby

In Justice, Gender, and Affirmative Action, Susan D. Clayton and Faye J. Crosby shed new light on a controversial policy. The authors argue that because society cannot rely upon individuals' perceptions of unfair treatment, there must be a mechanism for the proactive prevention of discrimination. Affirmative action provides such a mechanism, as its operation doesn't require that a victim of discrimination come forward on her own behalf.

Incorporating illuminating interviews with women who have experienced gender discrimination and women who have benefited from affirmative action, the authors show that self-doubt—claimed as the inevitable by-product of affirmative action—is far from inevitable.

The book will be essential reading for those concerned about the effectiveness of and necessity for affirmative action, including social scientists, policy analysts, government officials, and feminists and other rights activists.

168 pages, Hardcover

First published December 15, 1992