Discusses why affirmative action lacks full support in the United States. Two fairness issues are addressed in judging affirmative action programs: heightened salience of group identity and differences; and perceived scarcity of resources. Argues how program design and viewing work force diversity as a feasible means toward economic expansion can…

Examines the justice claims made by opponents and proponents of affirmative action and argues the need to consider the scope of justice embedded in the affirmative action debate. It describes the scope of justice, factors causing its change over time, its application to the affirmative action controversy, and presents a table clarifying the…

Summarizes research concerning affirmative action's continued role in civil rights and presents broad themes relevant to discussions of affirmative action. It explores the central issue of federal policy on affirmative action in relation to fairness at the societal and individual levels. (GR)

Examines the need for affirmative action, investigates why it may be needed in terms of contemporary racial attitudes, and considers ways of reducing intergroup conflict and tension surrounding this issue. It argues how affirmative action is more effective than passive equal employment opportunity policies and discusses policy and research…

Explores the concept of "effective help" in affirmative action to remove the stigma of branding policy recipients as being "preferentially selected" and implying a lack of ability. Argues that help must conform to societal values and that, if it is directed toward removing discriminatory barriers, it does not produce these…

Argues how the case against affirmative action heavily rests on myth and misunderstanding. It discusses 10 of the most common myths and presents public opinion poll data suggesting that support for affirmative action is greater than typically assumed. (GR)

Examines the impact of affirmative action as to whether the consequences of discrimination have been eliminated and whether measures are in place to prevent discrimination from occurring in the future. Argues that affirmative action has been partially successful, but its ultimate goal has not been reached. Some concerns and limitations in…

Presents a conceptual framework considered necessary for social scientists and policymakers in designing and implementing fair and effective affirmative action programs. It defines and contrasts affirmative action with equal opportunity and argues why affirmative action is necessary if organizations are to be fair. Supportive empirical literature…