EconTalk Jason Riley on Race in America
May 24, 2021
Jason Riley, a journalist and author at The Wall Street Journal, delves into the complex issues surrounding race in America. He argues that challenges for Black communities extend beyond racial discrimination and critiques narratives shaped by activists and media. Discussing topics like police presence, he highlights a desire for greater safety in Black neighborhoods. Riley examines historical contexts of Black Americans, emphasizes the importance of family dynamics, and calls for educational reform to empower disadvantaged communities, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of race and policy.
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Distorted View of Police Shootings
- Media focuses on race in police shootings without addressing race in criminality.
- This distorts public perception and may lead to less effective policing where needed most.
Incentives Behind Focus on Police Shootings
- Focusing on police shootings benefits civil rights organizations and activists.
- It keeps race front and center, raising money and driving voters to the polls.
Out of Step with Black Elites
- Jason Riley recounts being asked how he feels being out of step with other Black people.
- He corrects the premise, stating he's out of step with Black elites, not the rank and file.