scientific racism
Scientific racism is the misuse of scientific theories and data to support racial discrimination and the belief in the superiority of certain races over others. Originating in the 19th century, proponents claimed that physical differences, such as skull shape and skin color, determined intelligence and moral attributes. This pseudoscientific approach ignored environmental, social, and historical factors influencing human behavior. Despite being debunked, the legacy of scientific racism has influenced social policies and attitudes, underscoring the importance of recognizing our shared humanity and the ethical implications of scientific research.
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Scientific racism refers to the misuse of scientific methods and data to support or justify racial discrimination and inequality. Historically, some researchers have claimed that there are inherent differences among races in intelligence, behavior, or other traits, often using flawed studies or biased interpretations. This pseudoscientific approach has been used to rationalize oppressive social policies and reinforce stereotypes. Today, the consensus among scientists is that race is a social construct, and genetic differences within so-called racial groups are often greater than those between them, emphasizing shared humanity over divisive classifications.