Why We Hate

In this in-depth look at the most troubling aspect of human nature, a prominent, nationally recognized criminologist, who is a leader in his field, and a respected sociologist seek to explain why hate exists and offer practical methods for creating a more peaceable society.Are we born with a propensity to hate, or is it something we learn? Does educating people necessarily reduce hate? Looking at biological, psychological, and cultural factors, Drs. Levin and Rabrenovic investigate the evidence for hate as an inborn trait, as learned behavior, and as a reaction to envy, frustration, or the need for belonging, control, and authority.The topics include the media's role in contributing to hate, anti-Americanism, anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim sentiments, domestic terrorism, and "organized hate" in the form of white supremacist and civilian militia groups. Finally, in surveying the many trouble spots around the world where hate is manifest, they describe a series of inspiring situations that show surprising cooperation between ethnic groups who have transcended hate, and the authors explain how they achieved it.Both enlightening and insightful, this momentous and timely work offers hope that civilized human beings can come to grips with an age-old problem.

Jack Levin, Ph.D. (Boston, MA), is the Brudnick Professor of Sociology and Criminology at Northeastern University, as well as the director of the Brudnick Center on Violence and Conflict. He is the author of many critically acclaimed books on criminology, including Hate Crimes Revisited (with J. McDevitt) and The Violence of Hate, and is frequently quoted in the national media. He often appears on national television, including The Today Show, Oprah, The O’Reilly Factor, Larry King Live, 20/20, 48 Hours, and many other programs.
Gordana Rabrenovic, Ph.D. (Boston, MA), is associate professor of sociology at Northeastern University and the associate director of the Brudnick Center on Violence and Conflict. She is the author of numerous professional articles and one book, Community Builders, and the coeditor of Community Politics and Policy.