Name: Does racism affect how you vote?
Uploaded: 2009-04-22T01:00:00Z
Duration: 8 min 56 s
Description: Nate Silver has data that answers big questions about race in politics. For instance, in the 2008 presidential race, did Obama's skin color actually keep him from getting votes in some parts of the country? Stats and myths collide in this fascinating talk that ends with a remarkable insight.

Nate Silver has data that answers big questions about race in politics. For instance, in the 2008 presidential race, did Obama's skin color actually keep him from getting votes in some parts of the country? Stats and myths collide in this fascinating talk that ends with a remarkable insight.

Does racism affect how you vote?

Racial bias shaped the 2008 U.S. presidential election, with one in five white voters in Louisiana admitting they voted against Barack Obama because he was Black. Analysis shows that lower education levels and rural, mono-racial neighborhoods strongly predict negative attitudes toward interracial marriage and Black candidates. Cities and diverse communities tend to foster greater tolerance, while increased interaction across racial lines can help undermine prejudice. Because these patterns are clear, targeted solutions become possible.