Hate Crimes

School Library Journal

Gr 9 UpA collection of essays, reprinted from periodicals or excerpts of articles, that explore opposing viewpoints on various aspects of hate speech and crimes and groups associated with inciting and perpetrating violence. Although the subject matter is timely and relevant, the book has some flaws that should not be overlooked. First, most of the articles have a 1993 copyright, and most of the articles in the chapters on hate speech discuss two Supreme Court cases, State of Wisconsin v. Todd Mitchell and R.A.V. v. City of St. Paul, Minnesota. Although these cases are germane to an overview of contemporary hate crimes, broadening the discussion would give students a better perspective. Another area of concern is the unevenness of the quality and content of the essays. Although most of the articles are well-done pieces by respected journalists and experts in the field (e.g., Nat Hentoff), some are not. The article by Rush Limbaugh is self-serving, having nothing whatsoever to do with hate crimes, and the article by Tom Metzger (founder of White Aryan Resistance) is an example of hate speech, not a well-articulated argument in defense of free expression. There is a distinct difference between reasoned discourse among intelligent individuals and hate-filled propaganda. Additionally, some of the articles present very complex, sophisticated discussions. This volume, therefore, should be offered only to students who are already well grounded in basic, introductory material.Marilyn Makowski, Greenwood High School, SC

Anne O'Malley

Do hate crimes deserve their own classification? Can restriction of hate speech possibly violate the First Amendment? This latest Current Controversies title tackles the thorny issue of how far bigotry should be allowed to flourish in a free society. The editor has compiled articles dating from 1993 to 1995 that answer yes or no to four primary questions: Are hate crimes a serious problem? Should racist hate speech be limited? Should special penalties apply to hate crimes? Are certain groups mainly responsible for hate crimes? The respondents include legal experts, activists, Rush Limbaugh, a college president, magazine editors, the founder of White Aryan Resistance, journalists, and others, offering a wide scope of insightful and, at times, quite complex commentary. The depth of coverage makes this a useful title for upper-class high-school social studies and debate assignments. List of organizations; bibliography.