Why Racism is Frowned Upon: An Examination of Irrationality and Harm
Today, racism is universally condemned not only for its moral reprehensibility but also for its inherent irrationality. This condemnation is based on the recognition that racist beliefs and actions lead to significant harm and injustice, as demonstrated throughout history. In this article, we will explore the reasons why racism is frowned upon, supported by insights from classical and contemporary thinkers.
Irrationality of Racism
Philosopher Ayn Rand, despite her general distaste, once wrote an essay against racism that held merit. According to Rand, even if certain racial groups might have lower average intellectual giftedness, it does not imply that there cannot be highly intelligent individuals within those groups. To automatically consider someone inferior based on their appearance is absurd, as it defies rationality.
This argument aligns with modern scientific understanding. For example, the Ashkenazi Jews, despite their small population representing a fraction of the world's population, have won 29 of all Nobel Prizes since 1950. This success demonstrates that within a group, the distribution of intelligence follows a bell curve, meaning that some individuals from any group, regardless of ethnicity, can achieve extraordinary intellectual heights. Thus, attributing intelligence uniformly to an entire racial group is illogical and unsupported by data.
Evolutionary and Genetic Factors
It is important to recognize that biological factors play a role in human abilities and characteristics. Different populations have evolved to thrive in specific environments due to various genetic and evolutionary factors. For instance, white skin is advantageous at high latitudes for synthesizing vitamin D in weak sunlight. Similarly, Sherpas are hired for high-altitude mountaineering due to their genetic adaptations that enable them to cope with low oxygen levels.
These biological variations do not imply superiority or inferiority; they merely reflect the adaptive traits that have developed over thousands of years to ensure survival and success in particular environments. Labeling any race as inherently superior or inferior is a grave misconception that ignores the complex interplay of genetics and environment.
The Woke Movement and Its Impact
The rise of Woke ideology has sparked new forms of racial tension and division, often exacerbating existing problems. Woke rhetoric emphasizes racial identity and promotes a victim-oppressor narrative between white people and people of color. This polarizing approach diminishes essential dialogue and understanding, leading to the reinforcement of harmful stereotypes.
A recent example is the book "Woke Racism" by John McWhorter, which criticizes Robin DiAngelo's concepts. DiAngelo's book is criticized by McWhorter as one of the worst he's ever read. The vanity project promotes divisive and harmful rhetoric, leading some people of color to express highly racist views against white individuals. This only further entrenches negative stereotypes and creates a hostile environment for dialogue and unity.
Consequences of Neo-Racism
Woke ideology, with its emphasis on identity and power dynamics, has led to new forms of racism and segregation. This neo-racism is equally irrational and harmful, as it perpetuates false dichotomies and fosters hostility. The lack of proper understanding and evidence-driven arguments makes these neo-racial ideologies dangerous and counterproductive.
Fighting Against Neo-Racism
To combat both traditional and neo-racism, it is crucial to engage in rational discussions based on facts and evidence. Coleman Hughes, an African American and author, has provided excellent critiques of neo-racism. His arguments highlight that traditional racist beliefs are not only morally wrong but also illogical and harmful.
By promoting open and inclusive dialogue based on scientific evidence and rational thinking, we can work towards a future where human differences are celebrated and not used to justify injustice and division.