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Behind the Mule

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Political scientists and social choice theorists often assume that economic diversification within a group produces divergent political beliefs and behaviors. Michael Dawson demonstrates, however, that the growth of a black middle class has left race as the dominant influence on African- American politics. Why have African Americans remained so united in most of their political attitudes? To account for this phenomenon, Dawson develops a new theory of group interests that emphasizes perceptions of "linked fates" and black economic subordination.

248 pages, Hardcover

First published August 8, 1994

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About the author

Michael C. Dawson

4 books5 followers
Michael C. Dawson is John D. MacArthur Distinguished Service Professor of Political Science and the College at the University of Chicago.

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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
Profile Image for Indranil Kar.
2 reviews
December 15, 2025
Read this for my thesis. The theories make sense and I enjoyed reading this book.
Profile Image for Ietrio.
6,937 reviews24 followers
July 10, 2020
If it's "African American Politics" than it has everything to do with race, and not much to do with anything else. Class is just the signal that Dawson belongs to one of the many churches of Marxism.
Profile Image for Shalon Montgomery.
Author 2 books1 follower
February 19, 2017
This is a dissertation, textbook or something of that nature. My reason for stating the previous is this book doesn't seem to know its supposed to keep your attention. I forced myself through page 92 then finally gave up. His information becomes redundant quickly. His references concerning historical events are the book's only intriguing element.

Unless you are an African American who has never questioned his or her existence this book does little for you. But keep in mind this was published in 1995.


If you are searching for your next captivating read visit my website, http://shamont97.wix.com/literaryworks. I am an author looking for an audience.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews

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