Why, and how, are some people -- women, blacks, and other minorities -- discriminated against? The answers to these questions are important because an understanding of the causes and operation of discrimination is essential to finding effective ways to counteract and eradicate discrimination from our society. While the popular view holds that prejudice and bigotry lie behind racist and sexist discrimination, this book goes beyond that view to expose other roots of the problem that are more subtle and difficult to combat. The authors describe in detail the mechanics and effects of institutionalized discrimination in employment, housing, health and social services, education, politics, and the courts.