But opinion turned overwhelmingly against racial preferences in the late 1980's, was particularly hostile toward them in the recessionary years of the early 1990's and has remained negative ever since.

That perception, says John Regan, an English teacher, is a strong argument against racial preferences.

As recently as 1984, the Court seemed to take a sharp turn against racial preferences in employment in a decision involving the Memphis Fire Department.

Worse yet, a renewed political drive against racial preferences in California could make it virtually impossible even to inform minorities of the opportunities available to them.

This argument, which at first blush looks like the logical extension of the campaign against racial preferences, will appeal to many voters.

Up to now, Mr. Gingrich, an opponent of affirmative action, has said he is against preferences.

Under GATT, the only exception to the prohibition against new preferences is the total removal of tariffs to form a free trade area.

Don't his data and his program argue against racial preferences that teach black students literally to trade their presumed inferiority for gain - the price of which is always racial self-doubt?

On the political front, Ward Connerly, a conservative campaigner against racial preferences, tells of repeatedly being shouted down by university audiences.