In a ringing indictment, DeMott ( Surviving the Seventies ) attacks the myth that the U.S. is a classless society. Denying that class differences exist, that we all belong to the middle class, robs us of personal knowledge, whitewashes the prevalence of unearned advantages and perpetuates social wrongs, charges the author. He analyzes in detail the media's masking of class differences, with examples ranging from The Cosby Show to the "Baby M" surrogate mother case. He debunks the idea that schools are "fairness zones" free of unearned privilege, and dissects the "omni syndrome" (the myth that "each has access to all"), a syndrome supposedly shared by Peace Corps volunteers, aspiring rock singers and gentleman farmers. As an antidote to the presumption of classlessness, DeMott turns to the pretension-puncturing "talkback" of stand-up comics and actors. He calls for a reassessment of our laws and institutions to gauge the extent to which they foster class advantage or disadvantage.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Motivated by the juices of righteous anger, DeMott (humanities, Amherst Coll.) inveighs against the notion that American society is classless. Classlessness is a "lie" and a "myth" that has historically caused "fearful moral and social damage." With equal heat, he rips the middle class--the so-called "imperial middle"--as arrogant, condescending, demeaning, and fatuous. Ultimately, DeMott wants recognition and appreciation of class differences in all areas of society: economic, political, legal, intellectual, etc. An interesting work, but, like similiar ones, including Barbara Ehrenreich's Fear of Falling ( LJ 8/89), it tends to be reductive about this complex topic. Still, recommended for subject collections.
- Kenneth F. Kister, Tampa, Fla.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

We are dedicated to providing customers with easy, flawless transactions and excellent books! We provide 100% customer satisfaction and are always here to answer any questions or concerns for our customers.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Farm For Books Inc
1734 Bellaire Street, Denver, CO, 80220, U.S.A.

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

Shipping Terms

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	4 to 14 business days	3 to 8 business days
First item	US$ 5.50	US$ 12.75

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.