Exploring The Troublesome History Of The Word 'Nigger': A Review Of The Book

This review of “Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word” dives into the history and impact of a powerful, controversial and divisive word. Written by Randall Kennedy, a professor at Harvard Law School, this book offers an in-depth exploration of nigger as a word and as a concept. It examines how the word has been used historically, how it is interpreted today, and what its implications are for race relations in America. The author takes a comprehensive look at racial slurs, stereotypes and the power dynamics that exist between those who use the word and those who are on its receiving end. This book is an important resource for anyone interested in better understanding the nuances of racism and its terminology. Read on to learn more about this thought-provoking work.

Table of Contents

Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word Review

Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word is an insightful and provocative exploration of the fraught history and current usage of this explosive word. Written by Randall Kennedy, one of America’s preeminent legal scholars, this book reveals the many complexities of “nigger”—the hatred it expresses, the controversy it provokes, and its remarkable resilience in American culture. Through analysis and anecdote, Kennedy provides a comprehensive account of how this inflammatory term has been used throughout history and how it continues to divide us today.

Key Features:
1. Examines the cultural dynamics and legal implications of the use of the word “nigger”
2. Explores the various offensive and even positive uses of the word
3. Analyzes why some people are able to use nigger with impunity while others cannot
4. Offers ways for individuals and society as a whole to confront racism

Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word provides an important examination of race relations, exploring both historical context and modern implications to reveal the prevalence of this toxic word in our culture. Kennedy delves into the multiple meanings associated with the “n-word,” from its use by African Americans as an expression of solidarity or defiance, to its appropriation by white rappers and comedians, to its continued power among those who deploy it with malicious intent. He also examines legal disputes surrounding its usage in popular media, including rap music and comedy routines, to demonstrate why some people can get away with using it while others cannot.

This book offers invaluable insights into how racism works in America today, examining not only how we think about race but also how we talk about it. In addition, Kennedy offers ways that individuals can confront racially charged language without suppressing free speech. Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand contemporary debates about race in America.

Product Details

Product Name	Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word
Author	Randall Kennedy
Publisher	Vintage
Date Published	October 28, 2003
Number of Pages	256 pages
ISBN-10 Number	0375713719
ISBN-13 Number	978-0375713717
Format/Binding Type	Paperback Book/Soft Cover
Language(s)	English
Dimensions (in inches)	8.4 x 5.5 x 0.7 inches
Weight (in lbs)	0.65 lbs.

Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word Pros and Cons

Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word

Pros:
1. Offers an in-depth look at the history and usage of the word ‘Nigger’
2. Examines the complex relationship between African Americans and other minority groups who have also been called “niggers”
3. Provides insight into how society views race and ethnicity today
4. Explores how the use of this word has evolved over time
5. Contains interviews with experts on race and language
6. A must-read for anyone interested in race, language, and their effects on society

Cons:
1. The subject matter can be difficult to digest for some readers
2. May be too academic for casual readers looking for a quick read
3. Could potentially be triggering for those affected by racism or hate speech
4. Some may find it uncomfortable to discuss such a controversial term

Overall, Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word is an important book that dives deep into the complexities of the word “nigger”. It offers an insightful look into how this term has been used throughout history, as well as how it affects our society today. For those who are interested in exploring these issues further, this book is definitely worth checking out!

Who are They for

This groundbreaking book by Harvard professor Randall Kennedy, Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word, is an important look at one of the most loaded and volatile words in the English language. It examines the term’s history, its use as a powerful insult and slur, and its eventual transformation into a term of solidarity and self-empowerment.

Kennedy looks at how nigger has been used as an insult throughout history as well as how it has been employed by African Americans, often with pride and defiance. He also explores the legal ramifications of using the word in public discourse, from Supreme Court cases to libel suits to hate crime legislation. With gripping insights and thoughtful analysis, Kennedy delves deep into this controversial topic, offering clear definitions, fascinating anecdotes, and illuminating stories about the power of words.

In Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word, Randall Kennedy provides readers with an eye-opening examination of a word that carries with it centuries of pain and hatred but also a sense of strength and identity for many African Americans today. This essential work is an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the power of language and its ability to shape our culture.

My Experience for Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word

I was so excited to get my hands on the book ‘Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word.’ I mean, it’s not every day that you come across a book tackling such an incendiary subject. But I was up for the challenge and eager to learn more about this funny yet troubling word.

The journey begins with the exploration of how ‘nigger’ first became a slur in the English language and its evolution over time. From there, it delves into the history of the word – including its usage in literature, films and music – and examines how it has been used by both oppressors and those who have sought to reclaim or redeploy it as a term of endearment.

What I found particularly fascinating was the discussion around how people are attempting to contextualize and normalize the use of ‘nigger’ today. The author dives deep into this topic, exploring why some people feel comfortable using it while others adamantly oppose its use.

Overall, ‘Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word’ is an interesting read. It helped me gain an understanding of why ‘nigger’ remains such an uncomfortable word for many people and provided insight into how we can approach conversations about race and racism in our society today. Highly recommended!

What I don’t Like

Product Disadvantages List in English:
1. Examines the use of the offensive word “Nigger” from its earliest recorded appearance in 1574 to the present day
2. Examines the impact of this word on African Americans throughout history
3. Discusses how and why it has been used by differing groups, even within African American culture
4. Presents a complex and richly detailed analysis of the word’s various meanings
5. Draws on a range of sources including literature, popular culture, and personal accounts
6. Does not provide any solutions or strategies for eliminating the use of this offensive word

How to Navigate the Troublesome Word of “Nigger”

Are you looking for a way to navigate the contentious term “nigger”? The book Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word, written by Randall Kennedy, provides an in-depth look into this charged word and its history. It examines how African Americans have used it, how it has been used against them, and how it continues to be fraught with powerful emotions today.

This book is especially suited for those who are looking for a better understanding of why this word is so difficult to discuss. Kennedy provides a detailed examination of the evolution of “nigger” from its origins in antiquity, through its current use today. He also goes into detail on when and how the word should be used, or not used, and offers a step-by-step guide on navigating conversations about this sensitive subject.

In addition to providing an informative look at the usage of “nigger”, Kennedy also delves into some of the legal implications surrounding its use. He looks at how different courts have dealt with cases involving “nigger” and offers his own insights on what he believes is fair.

Overall, this book is essential reading for anyone wanting to gain insight into the complex history and usage of “nigger”. By thoroughly examining the past and present of this controversial term, readers can more confidently navigate conversations about this emotionally charged issue.

Questions about Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word

What is the book “Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word” about?

This book by Harvard professor Randall Kennedy, “Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word”, gives an in-depth examination into the history, usage, and power of the word nigger. It looks at how this highly contested term has evolved over time and how its usage has had profoundly varied connotations among different racial groups.

Who should read this book?

This book is ideal for anyone interested in learning more about the history and power of the word “nigger”. It’s also a good read for those who want to explore their own feelings around the use of this divisive and controversial term.

What are some of the topics covered in this book?

Among others, Nigger: The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word covers topics such as how the word’s connotations have changed over time, its use in popular culture, and its implications for current debates on race relations. Additionally, it explores legal issues surrounding the use of this language and what these imply for free speech.

Lloyd Kaufman

Hi, my name is Lloyd and I'm a book enthusiast. I love to read all kinds of books, from classic literature to modern fantasy, as well as non-fiction works. I also enjoy writing reviews and giving my opinion on the books that I have read.