Final answer:
Bissinger's inclusion of racist quotes in his book serves to provide an honest portrayal of the attitudes of the time, similar to the approach in Frederick Douglass's autobiography. This decision facilitates research-based discussions, though it can be offensive to some readers, highlighting the need for cultural awareness and sensitivity in presenting historical content.
Step-by-step explanation:
When including direct quotes with racist language from Odessa's white residents, author Buzz Bissinger may have aimed to provide an honest, unsanitized portrayal of the racist attitudes that existed. By not censoring these elements, Bissinger preserves the historical and cultural context, which can provoke thoughtful discussion and understanding among readers. This approach is similar to OpenStax's decision to include racial slurs in Frederick Douglass's autobiography to maintain historical accuracy and promote research-based discussions.
The question of whether to include offensive language in literature is complex. While the use of such language can be hurtful to readers, it can also hold a mirror to the societal issues of the time, as was the case with Douglass's portrayal of the dialogue of Mr. Auld. Readers and educators are encouraged to approach these texts with cultural awareness, leveraging the opportunity to discuss issues like racism, power dynamics, and historical context.
Ultimately, it is important for authors to balance the need for historical accuracy with cultural sensitivity, using their rhetorical choices wisely. Acknowledging the power of language, the paper can demonstrate cultural awareness and foster a platform for education on anti-racist views and inclusivity.