Review of Stupid White Men

Even if you disagree with what Michael Moore says, you have to admit that he's a funny man. The way he presents his ideas in "Stupid White Men" is definitely noisy, but I think that if one looks past the obvious shock value of Moore's statements this can be appreciated as an important book. Despite its title, this book is about lots more than stupid white men. Moore is rightly upset about our current America: the huge different between rich and poor, racism, pollution, unemployment, poor education, sexism, American violence and negative media influences. Unlike other muckrakers, he supports his opinions with facts and figures that even his detractors don't dispute. And instead of just whining and whining, he includes specific instructions to readers who might want to contact their Congressional Representative, organize within their own communities, and make a real difference.

Moore's first and easiest target is Bush administration and, in his view, the completely illegitimate presidency of George W. Bush. Moore is appalled at Bush's lack of qualifications, his deceit about his past, and his family and financial connections that seem to have been used unfairly. Moore's summarizes the screwed-up election (delivery of the Florida vote before the election ever took place, pre-Election day illegal disqualification of Democratic voters) in a way that will definitely shock readers. Although this aspect of the election was generally ignored by US media because it was partly their fault, it is factual.

Moore's style, unfortunately, is also kind of goofy. At times, his sarcasm isn't really necessary given the importance of his message. In addition, the book's tone changes for the worse midway through. In the first half of the book Moore gives a variety of useful lists: "How to Stage the Countercoup," a how-to for community organizers; "Survival Tips for White America," a serious discussion of ways to end racism; and "Guide to Student Rights." Halfway through this book his lists change and become stupid. "How to Use Less Gas," suggests that readers "siphon gas from parked cars at airports," "hitchhike," and "live in your office or place of work." He is serious, but then he jokes around, often at the expense of his thesis.

This an important book with more than several messages toward advancing a broken America that Moore clearly believes is worth fixing. "Stupid White Men" is deadly serious in places, and funny in others. A good read.