Table 3.5B, Affirmative action questions--preferential treatment (white respondents).

Question Wording and Notes:

Preferences in Hiring/Promotion (ISR): "Some people say that because of past discrimination, blacks should be given preference in hiring and promotion. Others say that such preference in hiring and promotion of blacks is wrong because it gives blacks advantages they haven't earned. What about your opinion--are you for or against preferential hiring and promotion of blacks? (If for) Do you favor preferences in hiring and promotion strongly or not strongly? (If against) Do you oppose preferences in hiring and promotion strongly or not strongly?" A sample size of fewer than 1,000 cases occurred in both 1998 and 2000. In 1998, 927 white respondents answerd this question; in 200, the number was 692.

1. Favor strongly
2. Favor not strongly
3. Oppose not strongly
4. Oppose strongly

Preference in Hiring/Promotion (CBS/NYT): "Do you believe that where there has been job discrimination against blacks in the past, preference in hiring and promotion should be given to blacks today?"

1. Yes
2. No
3. Depends/don't know (volunteered)