The Annual RV Jones Science Lecture, by Dr Adam Rutherford

How to Argue with A Racist: History, Science, Race and Reality

Race is real because we perceive it. Racism is real because we enact it. Neither race nor racism has foundation in science. But the appeal to science to strengthen racist ideologies is on the rise - and increasingly part of the public discourse on politics, migration, education, sport and intelligence. Stereotypes and myths about race are expressed not just by overt racists, but also by well-intentioned people whose experience and cultural baggage steers them towards views that are not supported by the modern study of human genetics. Even some scientists are uncomfortable expressing opinions deriving from their research where it relates to race. Yet, if understood correctly, science and history can be powerful allies against racism, granting the clearest view of how people actually are, rather than how we judge them to be.

A familiar face to many at Alleyn’s, it is a pleasure to welcome Dr Adam Rutherford, science writer, broadcaster and ex-Scientist-in-Residence at Alleyn’s, as he delivers this year’s RV Jones Science Lecture: How to Argue with a Racist.

All are welcome to hear what will be a vital manifesto for a twenty-first century understanding of human evolution and variation, and a timely weapon against the misuse of science to justify bigotry.