Superior: The Return of Race Science

Superior: The Return of Race Science examines how discredited theories of scientific racism continue to influence modern biology and society. Author Angela Saini combines interviews, scientific research, and historical analysis to trace the persistence of race-based theories from the 19th century through today. The book documents the evolution of scientific racism from early taxonomists like Linnaeus through the horrors of Nazi Germany and into the present day. Saini explores how these theories, though widely rejected by mainstream science after World War II, maintain influence in certain academic circles and are increasingly weaponized by white supremacist movements. Through investigation of both historical records and current research, the text reveals how racial categories are social constructs that have shifted significantly over time. Saini examines contemporary scientists who study racial differences, questioning whether such research can avoid perpetuating harmful biases of the past. The book presents a critical examination of how scientific concepts interact with social power structures, demonstrating the ongoing tension between objective research and ingrained cultural assumptions about race.

Readers describe the book as a thorough examination of how race science has persisted in research and academia. Reviews note Saini's detailed reporting and extensive interviews with scientists and researchers. Readers appreciated: - Clear explanations of complex scientific concepts - Documentation of how racist ideas infiltrate modern research - Personal stories and examples that illustrate larger points - Balanced approach to controversial topics Common criticisms: - Some sections feel repetitive - Could have explored certain topics in more depth - Writing style occasionally dry or academic - A few readers felt it avoided addressing certain genetic differences Ratings: Goodreads: 4.19/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (500+ ratings) Sample review quotes: "Methodically dismantles racial pseudoscience" - Guardian reader "Made complex genetics research accessible" - Goodreads reviewer "Could have better addressed criticisms of her position" - Amazon reviewer

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🔬 The book won the prestigious Physics World Book of the Year award in 2019, despite being about biology and race - highlighting its significant impact across scientific disciplines. 🎓 Angela Saini holds multiple degrees from Oxford and Columbia Universities and has been a Science Media Fellow at MIT's Knight Science Journalism program. 📚 The research for "Superior" spanned 3 continents and involved interviews with over 50 scientists, historians, and anthropologists. 🧬 The book reveals that humans share 99.9% of their DNA with each other, and there's often more genetic diversity within supposed racial groups than between them. 🏆 "Superior" has been incorporated into university curricula worldwide and was named one of the best books of 2019 by the Financial Times, The Telegraph, Nature, and The Sunday Times.