Rights Gone Wrong

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A *New York Times* Notable Book for 2011, this work examines the effectiveness of civil rights ideas developed since the 1960s in addressing the full spectrum of social injustice. While successful in combating overt discrimination, the book questions their efficacy against issues like segregation, which, though rooted in racism, are not directly caused by ongoing discrimination. The author argues that civil rights litigation often falls short in tackling these broader social ills. Opportunists exploit civil rights for competitive advantages, while special-interest groups seek privileges, leading to a distortion of the original intent. Extremists on both sides of the political spectrum have co-opted civil rights for personal gain, diverting attention from more pressing social injustices. Through a blend of shrewdness and humor, the author analyzes notable lawsuits, highlighting the blurred lines between civil rights and personal entitlements. Ultimately, the book contends that many contemporary social injustices cannot be addressed through civil rights law alone, advocating for more creative and nuanced solutions. To honor the legacy of the civil rights movement, the call is made to renew our commitment to civil rights while also moving beyond them.