About the Author

Dr. William Ryan was a sociologist, writer, researcher, and consultant in the fields of mental health, community planning, and social problems. He published many articles in professional journals and national magazines. Dr. Ryan participated for many years in direct demonstrations, pamphleteering, and political activity on civil rights issues. He was also the editor of Distress in the City: Essays in the Design and Administration of Urban Mental Health Services, published in 1969. His 1971 book Blaming the Victim was a landmark text in the fields of social justice and human services.

Reviews

“An impassioned, often brilliant expose of middle-class ideology.”—Herbert Gans“An illusion-shatterer of the first order…if you are concerned, you must read this book. It will stop you in your tracks.”—Library Journal