RACE: Are we so different?
The American Anthropological Association presents the science, history and lived experience of race in the United States in Smithsonian National History Museum exhibit “RACE: Are We So Different?”
Anthropological research shows that race is about culture, not biology, yet the very idea of race continues to play a real and meaningful role in our institutions and everyday lives. The exhibit uses scientific and sociological evidence to challenge preconceived notions about race, from the idea that sickle cell anemia is an African American disease to the belief that athletic ability is genetically determined.
Damon Dozier, AAA Director of Public Affairs, says, “The RACE exhibit is one big “ah-ha” moment.”
The exhibit will be open until January 1, 2012. Click here to learn more.
Much of the discord and disconnected talking at each other that prevents rational discourse on the subject of “race” my be reduced with a less ideological and more empirical approach. Is it “race” or racism that is the core issue? Referencing observable skin tone, ethnicity, subculture, crime statistics, education, residence, etc., directly, is more rational than using concepts with greater connotations than consistent definitions or empirical precision. Do light skinned and dark skinned people differ in their reported participation in and views of crime and its causes? Do city and small town or rural dwellers differ? What about those preferring… Read more »
I think this conversation is interesting and worthwhile for everyone especially considering our political and historical human relations which have always been marred by race. Race is, and will always be,a factor to some degree in the structure and transformation of our illusive relations. The United States is privilged to have social science that speaks to these important social issues..the fruits of a solid democracy, fluid but solid. South African academia in comparision is not as priviliged to contest ‘social space’ through critical social theory and science but I think it will get there..