This book investigates the ethical and legal legitimacy of affirmative action policies through a structured debate between two opposing viewpoints. Carl Cohen, a professor of philosophy, and James P. Sterba, a professor of philosophy, present their respective arguments regarding the morality and social necessity of racial preferences. The text utilizes a point-counterpoint format to examine the tension between individual meritocracy and the pursuit of social equality in institutional settings.

Experts and academics frequently cite this work as a balanced, foundational text for understanding the philosophical arguments surrounding affirmative action. Readers often note the high level of intellectual rigor and the clarity with which both authors articulate their conflicting positions.