Genetic Residues of Ancient Migrations: An End to Biological Essentialism and the Reification of Race

Authors

  • William M. Richman

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/lawreview.2006.87

Abstract

The two quotes reveal starkly different attitudes toward race and the depth and amount of genetic variation within our species. Belloc’s poem postulates racial essentialism, i.e., that there are large, biologically-based differences among the world’s populations on significant traits—intellect, industry, character. By contrast, according to Cannon’s statement, our species is unitary, without important geographically-linked differences on those crucial traits. Adopting the essentialist position yields a ready explanation for the disparate fortunes of different populations in our country and across the globe. Some groups, some nations are richer and more powerful and live longer and healthier lives because they are genetically more fit or better adapted than others on certain key parameters.3 The implication is that remedial efforts, either educational solutions or wealth transfers from First to Third World nations, are pointless or at least destined to produce only minimal results.

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Published

2006-04-26

How to Cite

Richman, William M. 2006. “Genetic Residues of Ancient Migrations: An End to Biological Essentialism and the Reification of Race”. University of Pittsburgh Law Review 68 (2). https://doi.org/10.5195/lawreview.2006.87.

Issue

Vol. 68 No. 2 (2006)

Section

Articles

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