Philosophy of Science and Race

First published in 2003. In this concisely argued, short new book, well-known philosopher Naomi Zack explores the scientific and philosophical problems in applying a biological conception of race to human beings. Through the systematic analysis of up-to-date data and conclusions in population genetics, transmission genetics, and biological anthropology, Zack provides a comprehensive conceptual account of how race in the ordinary sense has no basis in science. Her book combats our everyday understanding of race as a scientifically supported taxonomy of human beings, and in conclusion challenges us to be clear about what we mean by race and what it would require to remedy racism. Preface and Acknowledgments Introduction: Reason and Method 1. Philosophical Racial Essentialism: Hume and Kant 2. Geography and Ideas of Race 3. Phenotypes and Ideas of Race 4. Transmission Genetics and Ideas of Race 5. Genealogy and Ideas of Race 6. Race and Contemporary Anthropology 7. Philosophical and Social Implications Notes Select Bibliography Index