A Troublesome Inheritance

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Drawing on new evidence from the human genome, this account examines the genetic basis of race and its significance in human history. The concept of biological differences among races has been deemed toxic and is often excluded from academic discourse. However, the author argues that the consensus view—that human evolution ended in prehistory—cannot be correct. Populations have evolved distinct traits over the past few thousand years, such as lactose tolerance and adaptations to high altitudes. Race is not a clear-cut distinction; rather, populations that remain isolated tend to develop unique characteristics through Darwinian evolution. The author, a former journalist at The New York Times, references groundbreaking scientific research to support the reality of recent human evolution. He controversially discusses the genetic underpinnings of social behaviors, suggesting that traits like thrift and nonviolence have been genetically ingrained in agrarian societies. He also explores the genetic basis of intelligence-related traits in specific ethnic groups, including the Chinese and Ashkenazi Jews. While advocating for the fundamental equality of all humans, the author emphasizes the importance of pursuing scientific truth without fear, even if it leads into contentious territory. This work aims to initiate a crucial and overdue dialogue on race and human history.