Carl L. Bankston Book order

The book explores the evolving concept of equality in American society, tracing its historical development from the founding of the republic to contemporary times. It examines how cultural history, political and economic structures, and communication technologies have influenced societal views on equality. Key periods analyzed include the era of the self-made man, the New Deal, post-World War II, and the Civil Rights movement. The narrative culminates in an analysis of how these historical shifts have contributed to current political and social controversies surrounding equality.

The book explores the dynamics of the educational marketplace, arguing that the failure of school desegregation stemmed from monopolistic approaches to redistributing educational opportunities. Through historical evidence, it critiques how these efforts limited genuine choice and control within the system, ultimately hindering progress towards equitable education.

This book includes an analysis of the most significant Supreme Court cases that have been decided in the ten years since the first edition of the book appeared. The authors consider the important implications of these recent rulings for the future of school desegregation in America's schools.