Hate Groups (Issues in Focus)

Able, Deborah

ISBN 10: 076601245X ISBN 13: 9780766012455

Publisher: Enslow Pub Inc, 2000

Synopsis

Examines the historical roots of modern American hate crimes, some of the people and groups that carry out such crimes, and what their motivations might be.

About this title

From School Library Journal

Grade 6-9-This title is thoughtful in its presentation of the considerable and lengthy history of hate groups in the U.S. and in its examination of the complex conflict between protecting freedom of speech and current bias-crime laws. Able probes the causes behind the foundation of these groups and touches on their appeal to young people. She alludes to crimes against women and suggests a connection between the decline of the economy and the rise in their activities. Finally, the author points out that the vast majority of wounds inflicted by acts of bias are wounds to the dignity and spirit of the victims and also to the democratic dreams and principles of equality of American society. Illustrated with average-quality, black-and-white photographs and reproductions, this is an extremely readable and accessible research tool. It is important to note, however, that its coverage of a complicated and disturbing problem is cursory rather than comprehensive. The book will invite discussions and deeper explorations of a topic of great concern to YAs and, as a starting point and overview, is a worthwhile addition.
Doris A. Fong, Benson Polytechnic High School, Portland, OR
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Gr. 8^-12. Gay-bashing incidents, anti-Semitic violence, KKK-style and skinhead-led attacks--these and other examples of hate crimes are on the increase by perpetrators who despise their victims because they are "different." Able traces the hate crime phenomenon through American history, looks at the psychology behind it, and treats the delicate balance of First Amendment rights and "freedom" to hate. A chapter on teens and hate groups and the consideration of rape as a hate crime against women distinguish this work from similar good titles. And though this is not as detailed as Lang's Extremist Groups in America (1990) and Kronenwetter's United They Hate (1992), students will appreciate the accessible format, which marks this and other Issues in Focus titles. Organizations for further information; source notes; bibliography. Anne O'Malley

Edition details

• Publisher: Enslow Pub Inc
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 076601245X
• ISBN 13: 9780766012455
• Binding: Library Binding
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 112