Andrew Hacker Books

"Andrew Hacker's 2012 New York Times op-ed questioning our current mathematics requirements instantly became one of the the paper's most widely circulated articles. Why, he wondered, do we inflict algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and even calculus on all young Americans, regardless of their interests or aptitudes? The Math Myth expands Hacker's scrutiny of many widely held assumptions, such as the notion that mathematics broadens our minds, that mastery of azimuths and asymptotes will be needed for most jobs, that the entire Common Core syllabus should be required of every student. He worries that a frenzied emphasis on STEM is diverting attention from other pursuits and subverting the spirit of the country. Though Hacker honors mathematics as a calling (he has been a professor of mathematics) and extols its glories and its goals, he shows how mandating it for everyone prevents other talents from being developed and acts as an irrational barrier to graduation and careers. He proposes alternatives, including teaching facility with figures, quantitative reasoning, and utilizing statistics. The Math Myth is sure to spark a heated and needed national conversation not just about mathematics but about the kind of people and society we want to be."--Publisher's Web site.

Exploring the staggering costs of a college education, this book delves into the financial burden of attending elite institutions, examining whether the investment truly pays off. It questions the value of a degree in today's economy, analyzing factors contributing to rising tuition fees and the implications for students and families. Through research and insights, the author aims to provide a deeper understanding of the college experience and its long-term benefits versus costs.

Political scientist Andrew Hacker's white paper on the racial divide in America compares and contrasts black and white life along issues of income and employment, education, politics, and crime. Hacker presents research into elusive aspects such as attitudes toward race, everyday perceptions of each other, and lingering social barriers based on fear, anger, and guilt. His findings are based on interviews and research into the everyday experiences of average Americans from both racial groups

The book explores the state of mathematics education in America, analyzing its effectiveness and identifying key moments when it succeeds or falls short. Through insightful commentary, the author examines the challenges and opportunities within the educational system, offering a critical perspective on teaching methods and curriculum design. The work aims to provoke thought and discussion about how mathematics can be taught more effectively to benefit students across the nation.

Hacker expertly analyzes how the evolving economy influences everyday lives, shedding light on critical issues such as women's pursuit of salary equality, the ramifications of affirmative action for African Americans, and the effects of immigration on employment. By blending insightful data analysis with a human perspective, he reveals the tangible outcomes of these social dynamics, making complex economic trends accessible and relevant to readers.

Focusing on the increasing gender divide, Hacker provides a thorough analysis that builds on his previous examinations of race and wealth. He delves into the complexities of gender issues, exploring how societal structures contribute to disparities between men and women. Through his authoritative perspective, Hacker aims to shed light on the implications of this divide and its impact on society as a whole.