The riots in Baltimore
reignited an old debate: Are members of a particular racial group disadvantaged
because they lack the attitudes needed for economic success? Or because they
face discrimination – which is the root cause for any alleged attitudinal
problems, too? The same question has been asked about poor whites, but
also about women – in general or in particular areas (like business or science). Of course, it could be both – but in some circles “blaming
the victim” is seen as adding insult to injury. In this context, why not recall
Martin Luther King’s immortal words from over 50 years ago: "There are certain things in our
nation and in the world which I am proud to be maladjusted and which I hope all
men of good will
will be maladjusted until the good societies realize. … I never intend to become
adjusted to segregation and discrimination. I never intend to become
adjusted to religious bigotry. I never intend to adjust myself to economic
conditions that will take necessities from the many to give luxuries to the
few.” Should
anyone be blamed really for failing – or not wanting – to adapt to social and
economic conditions that are obviously problematic – even in the absence of any
personal bias and discrimination?
