The return of race science: an interview with science journalist Angela Saini

TL;DR

Science journalist explores the persistence of race as a concept in mainstream science, post WWII.

Transcript

we feel that race is so tangible right we feel that we know who we are but try and define it you know show me a good definition of what it is that is not a social definition of biological definition it's impossible it's like trying to grab something and make it real desperately trying to make it real because it has meaning real meaning in the real ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍🔬 Race as a concept was invented and perpetuated by Enlightenment scientists.
• 👨‍🔬 Scientific racism persisted post-WWII, influencing research and societal beliefs.
• 🖤 Racial categories in genetics lack genetic validity but still influence research.
• 👨‍🔬 Invoking race in research can have political and social ramifications.
• 🖤 Despite scientific advancements, racial categories remain arbitrary and lack clear boundaries.
• 💦 Social scientists have tackled racial disparities, but biologists need to engage more with this work.
• 🐎 The persistence of race as a concept reflects society's attachment to racial identity.

Questions & Answers

Q: What inspired the journalist to research the return of race science?

Growing up in a racist environment and witnessing racial hierarchy's persistence sparked her curiosity in exploring race within mainstream science.

Q: What were some surprising findings in the journalist's research?

The persisting influence of racial ideas in science post-WWII and the continuity of scientific racism despite efforts to move away from it were surprising discoveries.

Q: How did scientists after WWII contribute to the perpetuation of race as a concept?

Some scientists continued racial research post-WWII, maintaining racial categorizations and hierarchies, reflecting society's racialized beliefs.

Q: What are the implications of scientists invoking race in their research?

The use of racial categories in genetics can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and racial biases, impacting how scientific findings are interpreted and applied.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The journalist grew up in a racist environment, leading to an interest in exploring racism within mainstream science.

• Race as a concept was perpetuated by Enlightenment scientists, leading to a racial hierarchy that persisted even after WWII.

• The book explores how racial ideas continue to influence scientific research and society.