Steve Martinot Libri

An extensive critique of the structures of whiteness and how they produce racism in the United States

The book explores the historical formation of class and race in the United States, emphasizing the invention of whiteness and the intertwining of race and class since the seventeenth century. It contrasts the American experience with European class structures, highlighting how racial distinctions emerged from social relations and economic systems. Beginning with the slave plantations of the 1600s, it traces the evolution of racialization and its enduring impact on modern public and economic institutions, engaging with both historical and contemporary thinkers on these critical issues.

The book offers a thorough examination of the frameworks of whiteness and their role in perpetuating racism within American society. It delves into the historical and social constructs that uphold racial hierarchies, highlighting the systemic nature of racial discrimination. By analyzing these structures, the author aims to reveal the complexities of racial identity and challenge readers to confront their own perceptions and biases regarding race.

Exploring the philosophical connections between two pivotal twentieth-century thinkers, this work aims to uncover a "common language" that bridges their ideas. It offers a critical examination that enhances our understanding of Western thought, positioning itself as a significant contribution to contemporary philosophy.