This book just has so much that's useful in it I forget that it's written by a philosopher; and yet everything the author says is said very carefully and is so well-reasoned. What is racism? What is race? Can blacks be racist too? These are some of the questions addressed. I really love the examples the author uses where he asks the reader to consider whether the response is "racist" or not and his references to current movies; and I don't think I've ever read a better "brief history" of race and racism. That chapter in particular is a must-read for those of us who teach sociology, psychology, or history courses in race or prejudice. His approach is so much more nuanced than most in his understanding of the social construction of race alongside his understanding that we can not forget that shared historical and social experiences mean something central to people. This book is destined to become a source that scholars and educators alike will turn to and recommend to others. Not a flash in the pan treatment of a trendy topic -- but a really important book!

Having spent 27 years with Cincinnati PD and now a Sheriff's Office, I can not recommend this book highly enough for every law enforcement officer in the country. Even though this book seems geared toward the public on understanding their relationship with law enforcement, it does an excellent job of cheerleading those in law enforcement who are still committed to doing police work. Every city manager, county commissioner, council member, etc. should read this book to see why they should stand behind their law enforcement agencies if they want to improve them. It's hard to hit a home run if the home team fans keep 'booing.' As Americans we need to cheer the everyday heroic acts of law enforcement officers, not just when it's politically correct. Dr. Blum explains why the 'occuptaional bigotry' against police by some in the media creates a lack of spirit in officers that causes them to hesitate to do their jobs, which may cost them or other innocent people their lives. Stoning the Keepers at the Gate is a great morale booster for anyone in law enforcement.

I just finished this book after adding it to my collection of prep books for promotion (someday). Dr.Blum's prose is detailed and informative, without crossing the line into technical jumbly. Make no mistake: This book should be mandatory reading for all officers at every level. Don't wait until your first traumatic incident to buy this book; get it now and use the preparation techniques described. I only wish this book had been handed out the first day after leaving the protective walls of the academy...

This was easily one of the most informative and helpful book I have read since entering Law Enforcement 14 years ago. I highly recommend this book to all officers!!

Took me two days to read it. Took me another two days to re-read it as I was so intrigued with the insights that this psychologist has in our profession. Once I was done, I ordered a copy for every instructor (DT, Firearms, FTO) in our Department. Mandatory reading...