Sowell makes three basic arguments. First, he examines the economic impact of
slavery, in the United States, the
West Indies, and elsewhere. He distinguishes rural slavery from urban slavery, and circumstances in which blacks so predominated that many economic tasks fell to them of necessity, from circumstances in which blacks were punished for initiative and the development of skills. Next, he compares the economic skills, circumstances, and successes of
American blacks,
West Indian blacks,
Puerto Ricans,
Mexicans,
Jews,
Irish,
Italians,
Scottish, and other
ethnic groups. His third argument criticizes past governmental and economic policies, and opens up questions for the future. He has criticisms to make of
liberals,
radicals, and
conservatives, each of whom, he finds, protect their favorite illusions with respect to blacks. In conclusion, Sowell finds that ethnic groups that emphasize individualism, economic assimilation with mainstream society, and emphasis on self-reliance over political power are more successful. ==Reception==