Affirmative action attitudes: Effects of self-interest, racial affect, and stratification beliefs on whites’ views

James R. Kluegel, Eliot R. Smith

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

In this paper we examine the effects of economic self-interest, racial affect, and stratification beliefs on attitudes toward affirmative action programs held by whites. Using data from a recent national survey we find that at present direct and indirect competitive self-interest significantly shape white opposition to these programs. Stronger predictors of opposition, however, are negative racial affect, the perceived egalitarian consequences of affirmative action programs, and the general denial of unequal opportunity. Some suggestions for needed further research are offered, and the implications of our findings for social policy and for understanding the current racial climate are discussed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)797-824
Number of pages28
JournalSocial Forces
Volume61
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 1983

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • History
  • Anthropology
  • Sociology and Political Science

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