Discussing one of America's most divisive social issues, race, Dominic J. Pulera offers a roadmap to the future. This analysis includes detailed coverage of America's five "racial" groups: whites, blacks, Hispanics, Asian Americans, and American Indians. The author contends that race will matter to Americans during the 21st century because of visible differences, and that differences in physical appearance separating the races are the single most important factor shaping intergroup relations, in conjunction with the social, cultural, economic, and political ramifications that accompany them. Pulera shows how, why, when, and where race matters in the United States and who is affected by it. He explains the ongoing demographic transition of America from a predominantly white country to one where nonwhites are increasingly numerous and consequently more visible. The advent of a multiracial consciousness has tremendous implications for America's future, because the racial significance of almost every part of the American experience is increasing as a result. The author concludes on a note of cautious optimism as he explores whether the visible differences dividing Americans are reconcilable.

Author Biography

Dominic J. Pulera is an independent scholar who writes about issues related to race, ethnicity, and gender.