Race in biological and biomedical research

Area of Science:

• Human biology
• Genetics
• Social sciences

Background:

• The concept of race has influenced human biology research since the 19th century.
• Race's meaning and social impact originated in the political sphere, later entering science.
• This dual origin has led to disruptive and controversial uses of race in science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the historical relationship between the concept of race and scientific research.
• To examine how race, a political construct, has been integrated into biological science.
• To explore the potential of molecular genetics and political intervention in addressing race in biology.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of the concept of race in science.
• Examination of the evolution of race from phenotype inference to DNA variation.
• Discussion of the political and empirical origins of race in scientific discourse.

Main Results:

• The use of race in science has been unstable and controversial due to its political origins.
• Scientific methodologies have evolved from phenotype-based inference to direct DNA measurement.
• Despite methodological advances, the influence of race's dual origins persists.

Conclusions:

• Molecular genetics holds the potential to end the use of race in biology.
• Race is fundamentally a political idea, suggesting political intervention may be required.
• Resolving the burden of race in biology may necessitate both scientific and political solutions.