Summary
Today, whichever party is in power, Aboriginal issues are very much part of the national agenda. No account of the nature of Australian politics, or discussion of the future of Australian society, can be complete without consideration of the Aboriginal interest. Citizens, whatever their political preferences, are learning that the Aboriginal demand for a full role in society has a profound impact on public life.
In White Politics and Black Australians Scott Bennett coolly and dispassionately describes how the aspirations of Aboriginal Australians are expressed through a political system designed, first and foremost, for the white majority. Mabo, Wik, Native Title, Stolen Generation - these are just some of the issues discussed here.
In a field so often characterised by rhetoric rather than analysis, here is an account which acknowledges the day-to-day reality of political contest.
Scott Bennett teaches Australian politics and government at the Australian National University. Among his many books are The Making of the Commonwealth (1971), Federation (1975), Aborigines and Political Power (1989), Affairs of State: Government and politics in the Australian States (1992), Winning and Losing: Australian national elections (1996).
