Why can't Americans deal with the problem of racial strife (on all sides) in a rational way?

Question

Just wondering why Americans can't deal with the race issue honestly and openly without resulting to fear mongering and hatred? Why are Americans (of all colors) so afraid to just start talking about this issue calmly?

Answer 1

In the same way that other countries have talked about racial strife in a calm yet rational manner?

Show me one country that has done this.  Racial strife appears to affect many countries, and I can't think of a single one that has addressed it head on, and has solved it.  Most countries either shove it under the rug, or talk about it non-stop, in a way that separates and alienates the public against each other.  

That's not to say that we can't do it.  But it's a taboo subject that few Americans are really, and I mean, really willing to discuss.  Most people are afraid of being labled a racist for anything they say that may be taken out of context.  I think you'll find that this is the norm with most other countries.

Answer 2

There could also be the issue of The Right To Peace which could help resolve strife. There is not yet a right of this sort in The Bill Of Rights. The next step could be to introduce The Right for all citizens to own The Earth . This could make things more even. The next few steps could be to introduce The Right to a good standard of living, the right to food, the right to conserve natural resources without fear of war or other violence, the right to protect the environment,the right to an environment without industrial pollution and damage through war. These in addition to other rights which are well known.

Answer 3

The reason it is not discussed is because the level of ignorance is still too high. When people like some of the previous respondents here express their views born of stupidity, it is offensive and divisive.

Because he's black? That's an example of simple minded people who choose not to face reality. If the candidates were not extremely intelligent, they would not be in the positions they are.

Reverse racism is the biggest problem? No thoughtful consideration could result in that thought.

Answer 4

An EXCELLENT question... That's all I have to say because I can not give you an EXCELLENT answer. I've tried, but then I ran into some jerks. :(

Answer 5

I haven't noticed that racism is particularly an American trait.  Many Americans do deal with it calmly and rationally.  But they wouldn't be in the news.

I've seen racist remarks from all over the world on this website alone.  America doesn't have a corner on that market.

Answer 6

because nobody will acknowledge the fact that reverse-racism is a bigger problem than racism in this day and age

Answer 7

Because white men want all the money.  Racism helps put them in the lead.

Answer 8

I think it is very rational to eliminate all candidate that have ties to openly racial organizations.

it has always been done in both parties

I guess we should make an exception for Barrak Obamas racism (financial support for 20 amounting to thousands of dollars yearly in tithes to promote "white eyed devil" theology

why

because he's black?

Answer 9

I wish I knew. I don't have a problem with it. It is refreshing to hear Obama speak so openly and frankly about it. It is long overdue. He didn't say anything that I didn't already know and haven't already heard. I have spent time down in the deep south. I had close friends that were black. I've been to a black church. I've been to a white church. I've seen racism up north and down south. I know that I'm racist. I don't mean to be. I don't want to be. I look forward to the day (I hope in my lifetime) where we can look to each other as just human beings.

edit: The thing that may be difficult is now what? Racism is painful. I don't believe this whole thing about reverse racism. What???  That is not even possible. Only people in power have authority to oppress others. It happens. Things are changing and have been changing. It's a lot better now than it was even 5 years ago. We still have work to do though. Blacks in particular have to lose their negativity because it's hurting them even more. They need to take more responsibility and stand up. Demonstrate more courage. Be stronger. More of them can be successful at whatever they want to do. They have to make the effort and fight the battles they need to, ask for help, etc.

edit again: Some people are afraid of the truth or just can't handle it. They are afraid. I think people are weaker nowadays.