Future Societies
Question Set B
These are based on the first chapter of Adam Rutherfords’ book, How to Argue with a Racist – Skin in the Game (attached PFD)
What is the central thesis of “Skin in the game” and what kinds of evidence does Rutherford present to support his thesis?
What according to his account was the role of science and scientists in promoting racist views. Do you agree? Why or why not?
What in your opinion is the role of science in challenging and confronting racist views and ideologies? Do you feel that scientific arguments can be useful tools, and what are the limits of these? Are there views that you hold that were challenged by Rutherford’s arguments? Elaborate on why you personally found his arguments either compelling or unconvincing.
How do you see and/or experience the role of race in society? It may be worthwhile to reflect on whether your personal experience may or may not coincide with the experience of others, and why this could be the case. More generally, do you agree that race is a social construct or ‘story’, and if so, how can we change the narrative