You Sound Different — The Science Behind Race

23:53

January 26, 2011

While visiting the RACE: Are We So Different exhibit at the Science Museum of Minnesota, a visitor plays an interactive game about the traits people share. (American Anthropological Association and Science Museum of Minnesota/Courtesy photo) — While visiting the Race: Are We So Different exhibit at the Science Museum of Minnesota, a visitor plays an interactive game about the traits people share. (American Anthropological Association and Science Museum of Minnesota/Courtesy photo)

Can you tell someone's race just by the sound of their voice? What about by looking at their genes?

For decades, scientists have looked for a link between race and science. A new exhibit at the Museum of Science called "RACE: Are We So Different" dives into that discussion.

So, is there a basis for race in science? And if not, why do we keep looking for one?

Guest:

Alan Goodman, professor of Biological Anthropology, Hampshire College; former president, American Anthropological Association
Alondra Nelson, associate professor of Sociology, Columbia University; visiting fellow, Max Planck Institute for the History of Science, Berlin

This segment aired on January 26, 2011.