" Conservatives have rightly attacked rap for its misogyny, violence and over-the-top vulgarity. But it is important to remember that this music is a fairly accurate message from a part of society where human connections are fractured and impossible, so fraught with disappointments and pain that only an assault on human feeling itself can assuage. "
- Shelby Steele

In the given statement, Shelby Steele addresses a contentious issue regarding rap music by acknowledging that conservative critics have valid concerns about the genre's portrayal of misogyny, violence, and excessive vulgarity. However, he suggests that these criticisms alone miss an essential context: the raw reality from which this music emerges.

Steele goes on to suggest that while rap might seem offensive or problematic to outsiders, it actually serves as a powerful voice for people living in environments where social connections are severely strained and often marred by disappointment and pain. The aggressive nature of the lyrics can be seen as an expression of the deep frustration and disillusionment felt within these communities. By assaulting conventional human feelings and norms, rap music provides a cathartic outlet that resonates deeply with those who share similar experiences. This perspective challenges listeners to understand the cultural context behind such expressions rather than just focusing on their surface-level content.

Shelby Steele is an American author and social commentator known for his insightful critiques of race relations in America. His work often delves into the complexities surrounding civil rights, identity politics, and the evolving dynamics within African American communities. Through his writings and public speaking engagements, Steele has offered profound analyses that encourage a nuanced understanding of societal issues.