This is for poli sci and it is based on the podcast "the case for reparations" by The Atlantic Coates argues that the plunder of black slaves, namely using force to steal goods from blacks – including the bodies of blacks themselves – was a crucial to the success of the burgeoning American economy. Section V of “The Case for Reparations” is titled ‘The Quiet Plunder.’ What does the "quiet plunder" refer to? And what role does Coates suggest it played and continues to play in the 20th and 21st century American economy?

What is Coates’ critique of affirmative action policies? Why does he think such policies fail to address the needs of blacks?

What kind of reparations is Coates calling for? Are they simply monetary?

Why does Coates see Germany’s reparations to Israel for the Holocaust as a model for the U. S.? How did that model benefit Israel and the Israelis? How did it benefit Germany and the Germans? How, according to Coates, would such an approach benefit America and Americans, black and white?

Do you find Coates’ argument for reparations convincing? Why or Why not? Given Americans preference for procedural solutions, do think it realistic?