Dying of Whiteness: How the Politics of Racial Resentment is Killing America's Heartland
by Jonathan M. Metzel
Pages: 341
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The author, Jonathan Metzel, a physician reveals how extreme right-wing backlash policies have deadly consequences for the white middle and lower class voters they promise to help. In the Donald Trump era many middle-class white Americans are drawn to him and other politicians promising to make America great for the middle and working class again, but in reality the policies they are putting in place only assist the wealthy and are damaging to all middle and lower class citizens. He examines these policies in relationship to mortality rates and illness rates.
Having been born in Kansas, grown-up in Missouri and now living and working in Tennessee, he chose these three familiar states to interview everyday citizens. He examines how racial resentment has fueled pro-gun laws in Missouri, resistance to the Affordable Care Act in Tennessee and lead to cuts in school funding and social services in Kansas.
I had no idea that citizens of other states and researchers have started referring to Missouri as the "Shoot Me State" instead of the "Show Me State" or that Missouri is the state currently being researched the most for gun violence, suicide by guns and overall death by guns. I was also surprised to learn that the suicide by gun rate for white males in Missouri is higher than any other state and for any other group. So, much to learn from this book!!
