Every town has problems, and the town of Maycomb from the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, is no different. The citizens of Maycomb are exposed to the social problems created by racism. Due to racism, physical abuse abounded in the city of Maycomb. The citizens of Maycomb have been caught up in a cycle of racial discrimination, proving that racism benefits no one. The citizens of Maycomb face many social issues due to the conflict of racism. Social outcasting is a consequence of racism. This can be demonstrated when Jem says, “They don't belong anywhere. Black people won't have them because they're half white, white people won't have them because they're colored, so they're just in the middle, they don't belong anywhere. “(Harper Lee, page 161). Mr. Raymond's mixed children are socially outcasts from the whole town, as no one wants to be with them, both races find them a disgrace to their own race. These children have no one to be with but themselves and that is not fair because these children could be just as capable as any other child. This demonstrates Maycomb's contempt for equality. Additionally, children's minds are often clouded with confusion due to prejudicial acts of racism. Dill is an innocent child who also experiences this confusion when he says, "That old Mr. Gilmer treated him that way, talking to him so hatefully... It was the way he said it that made me sick, really gross" (Harper Lee, page 198) The adults of Maycomb are unfortunately distracting Dill's mind. Dill being too young to understand the people of Maycomb, realizes that being racist is unfair. Furthermore, the verbal aggression creates tension among many citizens of Maycomb. Tension is built through: "You have nothing to do with the white chillum here... middle of paper... Mr. Finch' legs." (Harper Lee, page 193) Being his color, Tom cannot stand up for himself to prove his innocence, because no one would believe him. Mayella attacked Tom and blamed him for attacking her. Mayella targeted Tom because she knew he was defenseless and couldn't do anything. The reality of Maycomb's racism simply demonstrates that all citizens are unhappy with the results of racism. Racism in Maycomb brings nothing but negative results, showing us that racism cannot benefit anyone. The citizens of Maycomb must fight against all the social problems created by racism. Maycomb citizens are also physically attacked due to racial discrimination. Racism is an unnecessary problem caused by prejudicial thoughts and can be controlled by everyone. Works Cited Lee, Harper. To kill a mockingbird. New York: Warner Books, 1960. Print.