Q&A Jason Riley, "The Affirmative Action Myth"
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Sep 1, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Jason Riley, a Wall Street Journal columnist and author of 'The Affirmative Action Myth,' challenges the effectiveness of affirmative action policies since the 1960s. He argues that these measures have stunted Black progress, despite prior improvements in income and education. Riley also addresses the stigma around Black achievement, the mismatch effect in education, and the historical context of Black family structures. He emphasizes the need for a reassessment of policies shaping race and opportunity in America.
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When Affirmative Action Shifted
- Riley dates modern affirmative action to the late 1960s and its full implementation in the 1970s with quotas and set-asides.
- He argues that shift changed outreach into lowering standards and expanded race-conscious policies.
Favor Colorblind Public Policy
- Do not make public policy that picks winners and losers by race, Riley warns.
- He recommends colorblind public policy rather than race-based treatment for social cohesion and fairness.
Pre-1970s Gains Outpaced Later Progress
- Riley compares black gains before 1970 to slower progress after affirmative action became widespread.
- He claims pre-1970s trends showed faster black upward mobility and narrowing racial gaps than the affirmative action era produced.
