An introduction to a Special issue of the Journal of Social Issues (JSI) by the guest editor, which reviews psychology's concerns with race relations and race related issues during the fifties, sixties and seventies, summarizes past JSI issues pertinent to those issues, and introduces the ten articles in this issue. (Author/JM)

Examines the need for affirmative action, investigates why it may be needed in terms of contemporary racial attitudes, and considers ways of reducing intergroup conflict and tension surrounding this issue. It argues how affirmative action is more effective than passive equal employment opportunity policies and discusses policy and research…

Summarizes research concerning affirmative action's continued role in civil rights and presents broad themes relevant to discussions of affirmative action. It explores the central issue of federal policy on affirmative action in relation to fairness at the societal and individual levels. (GR)

Discusses why affirmative action lacks full support in the United States. Two fairness issues are addressed in judging affirmative action programs: heightened salience of group identity and differences; and perceived scarcity of resources. Argues how program design and viewing work force diversity as a feasible means toward economic expansion can…

Argues how the case against affirmative action heavily rests on myth and misunderstanding. It discusses 10 of the most common myths and presents public opinion poll data suggesting that support for affirmative action is greater than typically assumed. (GR)

Discusses recent research on the attitudes of employees who are affected by affirmative action to determine whether societal-level beliefs about discrimination lead to policy endorsement among individuals whose career outcomes are at stake. Suggests there is more endorsement than "backlash" against affirmative action, and discusses the…

Examines the justice claims made by opponents and proponents of affirmative action and argues the need to consider the scope of justice embedded in the affirmative action debate. It describes the scope of justice, factors causing its change over time, its application to the affirmative action controversy, and presents a table clarifying the…

Examines the impact of affirmative action as to whether the consequences of discrimination have been eliminated and whether measures are in place to prevent discrimination from occurring in the future. Argues that affirmative action has been partially successful, but its ultimate goal has not been reached. Some concerns and limitations in…

Presents a conceptual framework considered necessary for social scientists and policymakers in designing and implementing fair and effective affirmative action programs. It defines and contrasts affirmative action with equal opportunity and argues why affirmative action is necessary if organizations are to be fair. Supportive empirical literature…