Introduction
Ben Shapiro, in a video on YouTube, critiques and debunks the arguments presented in a viral video titled ‘Systemic Racism Explained.’ Shapiro addresses each point made in the original video, offering counterarguments and presenting additional context.
School Funding and Policy
The original video introduces Jamal and Kevin, two boys from different neighborhoods, to illustrate disparities in school funding. Shapiro argues that these disparities can be addressed through school vouchers, charter schools, and breaking teachers’ unions, which are opposed by many Democrats.
History of Systemic Racism
The video explains that systemic racism has historical roots, referencing practices like redlining that denied black families access to loans and higher education. Shapiro acknowledges the history but points out that redlining has been illegal since 1968 and argues that policies like affirmative action have over-corrected these historical injustices.
Wealth and Inheritance
Shapiro challenges the notion that wealth is primarily inherited. He cites data showing that most millionaires did not inherit their wealth and emphasizes income mobility as the key path to financial success in America.
Redlining and Current Impact
The original video states that redlining still affects home values today. Shapiro counters this by referencing studies that account for various economic variables and suggesting that past discrimination alone does not fully explain current disparities.
Implicit Bias and Employment
The video claims that implicit bias affects job prospects, with resumes featuring white-sounding names receiving more callbacks. Shapiro discusses studies indicating that class, rather than race, is a significant factor in hiring discrimination.
Educational and Occupational Choices
Shapiro highlights that African American students are more likely to choose majors that lead to lower-paying jobs, contributing to the wealth gap. He argues that focusing on current educational and occupational choices is more productive than attributing disparities solely to systemic racism.
Addressing Incarceration and Representation
The video briefly mentions disparities in incarceration rates and political representation. Shapiro argues that these issues are more complex and cannot be attributed entirely to systemic racism.
Conclusion
Shapiro concludes by emphasizing the need to address current policies and behaviors that affect opportunities today, rather than solely focusing on historical injustices. He promotes individual responsibility and systemic solutions that go beyond traditional Democratic policies.
