New Books in Anthropology C. J. Pascoe, "Nice Is Not Enough: Inequality and the Limits of Kindness at American High" (U California Press, 2023)
Sep 21, 2023
C. J. Pascoe, an associate professor of sociology at the University of Oregon, dives into the limitations of kindness in American high schools. She reveals how a culture of superficial kindness can obscure deeper systemic inequalities rooted in race, gender, and class. With insights from her extensive research, Pascoe critiques the failure of schools to foster genuine change and discusses how caring educators can truly support students. She also shares thoughts on her upcoming works about friendship and sexual culture in education.
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Kneeling Protest Labeled Political
- Teachers at American High kneeled during the national anthem to protest racist police violence.
- The district labeled this act as "political behavior" and threatened job loss if it continued.
Kindness Masks Political Silence
- American High labels discussions on power and inequality as "political" and thus off-limits.
- Kindness and love replace political discourse, masking systemic issues without solving them.
Safety Drills vs. Gun Control Protests
- Active shooter drills at American High cause emotional depletion among students.
- Students organizing protests for gun control faced punishment threats as protests were deemed "political."
