ABSTRACT
This chapter sets out the main themes of the book, to survey the relevant debates in contemporary French (and Anglo-American) literature, and examine some of the problems of method involved. It identifies four main themes which run through antiracism since 1945. First theme is discrimination. Representation, which is the second theme, is used in several different ways. The foundation and mobilisation of antiracist organisations frequently arose out of the need for solidarity, which is third main theme. Finally it argues that antiracism constitutes a hegemonic project in France. The chapter considers the ways in which racism and antiracism have been theorised in contemporary France. This introduction also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book. The book develops an understanding of antiracism, as a set of political discourses and practices which offer an alternative view of the world. It discusses discourses of the Enlightenment and their limitation as a model for antiracists.
