White Supremacy, Masculinity, Patriotism, Social Character

Applies the most recent research in social-psychology to decisive historical events that built white supremacy as a cultural force, institutional system, and dominant social character. Simultaneously discusses the progressive counter forces that have and continue to challenge white supremacy, and how this dialectical battle has brought the United States to the social, cultural, and political polarization of the present day. Builds a four-part argument. First, the origins of white supremacy in the United States, and how some (many) people uphold it today. Second, discusses the dark tetrad character type (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism) that finds white supremacy appealing. Third, examines sociohistorical patterns that promoted white supremacy, rewarded people who practiced it, and instilled the dark tetrad character type that finds meaning and comfort in racist (and misogynist, heteronormative) domination. Fourth, discusses the social counterforces that challenge white supremacy and instilled what the author calls the affirmative tetrad—compassion, gratitude, awe, and love.