Exceptionally Backward: Economic, Racial, Gender, and Generation Inequality in a Neo-Colonial US

Economic disparities persist in America, seemingly despite all efforts. How can it be?

Prof. R.C. De Prospo examines persistent economic, racial, gender, and generational disparities, arguing that these inequalities are deeply rooted in America's founding principles and ongoing cultural narratives. A critical analysis of concepts like American exceptionalism and originalism in constitutional law, the book argues that these ideologies often serve to justify or obscure systemic injustices.

De Prospo draws on a wide range of disciplines, including American Studies, history, literary criticism, and critical theory. Surveying literature from Marx’s Das Kapital to the writings of “Enlightened” US founders like Jefferson, from Harriet Beecher Stowe to W.E.B. Du Bois, Thomas Piketty and others, he argues that what’s most exceptional about American culture is its backwardness.

Measuring our performance through objective factual evidence including racial, gender, and generational differences, De Prospo argues that ideologies like American Exceptionalism and Originalism in Constitutional Law often serve to justify or obscure systemic injustices. By integrating economic theory, historical context, and cultural critique, the author sheds light on systemic factors that sustain inequality.

This book serves not just as an academic resource but also as a prompt for reflection and dialogue. De Prospo encourages scholars, students, and activists to engage with pressing issues of our time, advocating for a reconsideration of the narratives surrounding justice and equality.

The writing is stylistically and structurally challenging, aiming not to reinforce a comfortable view of American exceptionalism but to vigorously contest it in its entirety. A radical departure from conventional wisdom is best represented in a writing style reflecting that departure.

Featuring a thorough bibliography and index, Exceptionally Backward is a valuable resource for those interested in promoting social equity and understanding the challenges of modern America. Join the conversation about the future of equality in the U.S. and discover how learning from our past can contribute to a more equitable tomorrow.