Hate crime in the media: a history

Abstract

A powerful, uncompromising explanation of how subtle sources of hatred contained throughout our media and culture have resulted in a tolerance for hate crimes in America. How is hate engendered, and what causes hatred to manifest as criminal behavior? Hate Crime in the Media: A History considers how in America, perceived threats on national, physical, and/or personal space have been created by mediated understandings of different peoples, and describes how these understandings have then played out in hate crimes based on ethnicity, religious identity, or sexual identity. The work reveals the origins of hate in American culture found in the media; political rhetoric; the entertainment industry, including national sports; and the legal system. Each chapter addresses historical questions of representation and documents the response to those considered intruders. The book also examines trends in hate crimes, the resulting changes in our legal code, and the specific victims of hate crimes. Provides readers with an understanding of how deeply embedded in daily cultural practices the roots of hatred are in American culture Spotlights the role of cultural institutions such as the media, political rhetoric, and the entertainment industry in fostering an atmosphere of hate Portrays hate crime as unexceptional in American culture rather than isolated acts of deviant individuals Examines media depictions of those considered Other throughout American history, including enemies during war, immigrants, different racial and religious groups, and those whose sexual identities have been deemed Other