Customer Reviews

Manichean Psychology: Racism and the Minds of People of African Descent

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Harrell does a tremendous job of addressing the issue of racism's psychological impact on people of African descent. He includes the perspective of Black people both on the continent (Africa) and in the diaspora, but with a special emphasis on the African-American experience. This book is written from a social cognitive perspective, but I appreciate that Harell does acknowledge and discuss the irony of using a Eurocentric scientific tradition (psychology) to address the impact of Euro-American oppression. I am a graduate student in psychology and I just think that in all my years of formal training, this is the first book that has honestly and explicitly addressed the issues that are actually most meaningful to the mental health of Black people. Harrell discusses everything from propogandized media influences to the perception of real economic disparities, and specifically demonstrates how such stimuli come to be psychologically processed and elicit certain responses from Black people. To be honest, I was planning on writing this book at some point in my career but I'm glad to see that Harrell already has...it offers a clear analysis of the mechanisms by which the subtle racism so deeply embedded in our everyday lives actually shapes the experiences and thoughts of Black people. Also includes diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations. Anyone who is serious about undoing the psychological damage of racism, not just applying band-aids, should read this text. Excellent work!