Einstein on Race and Racism Author:Fred Jerome, Rodger Taylor "This book tells the story of how Einstein reacted to the racism he saw around him, and to the fight against it by Princetons long-established black community. It is a fascinating story and, unfortunately for our country, it is not just history but a contribution to contemporary struggles against American racism, at home and abroad."... more »John Stachel, director of the Center for Einstein Studies, Boston University, and founding editor of The Collected Papers of Albert Einstein"For many people around the world, Einsteins name is a household word, and yet Fred Jerome and Rodger Taylors important new book reveals in startling ways how little we know about his profound insights into the realities of race and racism. We owe Fred and Rodger a huge debt of gratitude."Danny Glover, actor"A fascinating and timely upgrade to our current perceptions of Einstein, redeemed from the careful silences of official narrative. Allowing the voices of the people who lived it to tell the story, Jerome and Taylor have brilliantly given us back a part of our history, refocusing attention on the heart and soul of what Einsteins life was always about."Thomas Pynchon"Thanks to Fred Jerome and Rodger Taylor, we have unimpeachable evidence that the Man of the Century wrestled fearlessly and insightfully with what his friend W.E.B. Du Bois termed the centurys greatest problem: the color line. This is one of the years most important books."Michael Eric Dyson, author of The Michael Eric Dyson Reader"This is insightful scholarship that explores race and racism, drawing on the analytical insights of innovative giants of divergent social and professional recognition."Prosper Godonoo, director, Paul Robeson Cultural Center, Rutgers UniversityNearly fifty years after his death, Albert Einstein remains one of Americas foremost cultural icons. A thicket of materials, ranging from scholarly to popular, have been written, compiled, produced, and published about his life and his teachings. Among the ocean of Einsteiniascientific monographs, biographies, anthologies, bibliographies, calendars, postcards, posters, and Hollywood filmshowever, there is a peculiar void when it comes to the connection that the brilliant scientist had with the African American community. Nowhere is there any mention of his relationship with Paul Robeson, despite Einsteins close friendship with him, or W.E.B. Du Bois, despite Einsteins support for him. This unique volume is the first to bring together a wealth of writings by the scientist on the topic of race. Although his activism in this area is less well known than his efforts on behalf of international peace and scientific cooperation, Einstein spoke out vigorously against racism both in the United States and around the world. Fred Jerome and Rodger Taylor suggest that one explanation for this historical amnesia is that Einsteins biographers avoided "controversial" topics, such as his friendships with African Americans and his political activities, including his involvement as co-chair of an antilynching campaign, fearing that mention of these details might tarnish the feel-good impression his image lends topics of science, history, and America. Combining the scientists letters, speeches, and articles with an engaging narrative that places his public statements in the context of his life and times, this important collection not only brings attention to Einsteins antiracist public activities, but also provides insight into the complexities of antiracist culture in America. The volume also features a selection of candid interviews with African Americans who knew Einstein as children.For a man whose words and reflections have influenced so many, it is long overdue that Einsteins thoughts on this vital topic are made easily accessible to the general public.« less