Why We Hate

Are we born with a propensity to hate, or is it something we learn? Both enlightening and insightful, this momentous and timely work offers hope that civilized human beings can come to grips with an age-old problem.

Expressions of hate are an almost daily feature of the evening news, from the mayhem unleashed by suicide bombers in Israel to the unimaginable destruction of the Twin Towers. And since September 11, Americans have repeatedly asked themselves, "Why do they hate us?" In this in-depth look at the most troubling aspect of human nature, a prominent, nationally recognized criminologist, who is a leader in his field, and a respected sociologist seek to explain why hate exists and offer practical methods for creating a more peaceable society. Are we born with a propensity to hate, or is it something we learn? Does educating people necessarily reduce hate? Looking at biological, psychological, and cultural factors, Drs. Levin and Rabrenovic investigate the evidence for hate as an inborn trait, as learned behavior, and as a reaction to envy, frustration, or the need for belonging, control, and authority. These highly regarded authors will reveal their new original findings on hate among Americans as well as the media's role in contributing to hate. They will also consider the phenomena of anti-Americanism and anti-Semitism before and after September 11, in addition to anti-Muslim sentiments in the wake of the Twin Towers attack. Also discussed are domestic terrorism and "organized hate" in the form of white supremacist and civilian militia groups. Finally, in surveying the many trouble spots around the world where hate is manifest, they describe a series of inspiring situations that show surprising cooperation between ethnic groups who have transcended hate. The authors explain how such peaceful coexistence was achieved. Both enlightening and insightful, this momentous and timely work offershope that civilized human beings can come to grips with an age-old problem.