Reference no: EM133355500

Questions:

1) The terms invisible politics, movement politics, and electoral politics have been introduced to identify or typify African American systems of political participation. Describe and analyze each of these methods.

2) Some political theorists suggest that the principles and policies of the Democratic and Republican Parties are becoming indistinguishable relative to the interests of African Americans. Consequently, the idea of a Black independent party has been revived. Discuss the pros and cons of an African American independent political party.

3) Historically and presently, what benefits have White Americans gained through political coalitions with African Americans? Have such coalitions been mutually and equally rewarding for both parties?

4) Discuss the reasons why alliances formed between organized labor and African Americans have been episodic rather than enduring. How will geopolitics and global economic policies of the twenty-first century affect the social, economic, and political welfare of African Americans?

5) The contemporary plight of African Americans results to a significant extent from the economic oppression and exploitation experienced by their ancestors during the slavery era. Reparations have been proposed to compensate Black people for uncompensated labor extracted during the slavery era. Express a critical analysis of the merits and weaknesses of the various reparations proposals discussed in this chapter.

6) Defend or refute the following statement: "Rap music should not be supported by African American Studies specialists because too many songs degrade women and celebrate violence and other behaviors that have a negative impact on black communities."

7) Scientific and technological advances have had both positive and negative effects on the well-being of African Americans. Discuss whether the net effect of these advances have improved or worsened the overall situation of African Americans.

8) Targeted racial-ethnic medical prescriptions may produce negative or positive benefits. Analyze the pros and cons of race-specific medications and treatments. Discuss the extent to which sufficient scientific genetic research has been conducted to validate this practice.

9) Describe some ways in which information technology is being used to enrich instruction in African American Studies. What types of new applications might further enhance the learning experience of students?

10) Identify and evaluate the risks associated with two forms of environmental racism experienced in many predominantly Black communities. Select two of the principles of Environmental Justice presented in your textbook and discuss how policies consistent with these principles could improve the quality of life in predominantly Black communities.