Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Race & Sports Quiz

This is an interesting quiz about sports stereotypes, presented on the site of a non-profit organization called Understanding Race that's aimed towards youth education:

http://www.understandingrace.org/lived/sports/index.html

The organization is attempting to debunk myths about race, but also acknowledge differences, and the quiz on sports is pretty interesting in that regard. Even I was surprised to read: "What makes it so difficult to counter the argument that biological differences exist among racial groups is that there appears to be evidence to support it [...] there is some anecdotal evidence to support differing racial athletic aptitudes".

In addressing the "white man can't jump stereotype", it doesn't completely refute assumptions on this matter: "There is no conclusive research that documents the theory that blacks can jump higher than whites. However, among elite athletes, particularly professional basketball players and high jumpers, their vertical leaping ability is significantly greater relative to their height. "

What do you think? Does this seem kind of bogus to you, or does it have some scientific validity? Is it worth noting? Should this organization be teaching such racial nuances and physical distinctions to young people, especially ones who are already struggling with notions of racial equality? If this "biological advantage" is at all true, what does it say about black, Chicano, or other athletes getting athletic scholarships? I am completely unsure...

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