Race Matters analyzes the internal and external obstacles facing the black community. West delves into the internal roadblocks that prevent black people from unifying across the nation. For instance, West criticizes the black bourgeois for leaving behind many disenfranchised blacks that contend with oppressive forces in the form of racism and a market system that leaves too many black people behind.

Moreover, West criticizes the impact of conservative politics on the black psyche. West contends that notions of individualism have solely placed blame on black people without acknowledging the external and internal hurdles that they face on a daily basis. Rather, West stresses individual responsibility and the restoration of a collective black consciousness that seeks to remedy profound problems affecting the black community.

Further, he maintains that a lack of unity has diluted the pool of quality black leadership that is needed to tie communities together and champion vital causes. Moreover, he cautioned against the rise of black nationalism, emphasizing that black leaders must lead the charge of social justice while fostering peace between white and black people.