Is that what Stephens is doing, or does he think there's some innate racial trait involved? I have no idea, and other things in his column (like chess prowess as a proxy for intelligence) suggest a lack of serious thought. But this essay is worth reading: https://www.nyu.edu/gsas/dept/philo/faculty/block/papers/Heritability.html …
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Among other things, the discussion of IQ in that essay, and why it is such an poor measure for intelligence, is golden. So is the idea that groups can pass along great advantages (or disadvantages) across generations in ways that shadow race but have no physical basis in biology
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The fact that traits can be heritable without being innate is one of the most powerful arguments against sexism and racism, which is why I am wandering into this particular minefield here on a lovely website devoted to building bridges with fellow people of good cheer.
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why do you want to say something in defense of Bret Stephens
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I think the linked essay makes an underappreciated point and enjoy any opportunity to share it.
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The majority of people assume a certain heritage. It, too often, proves wrong, genetically
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Having a tiny kernel of truth or doubt is how the right-wing has managed come back into mainstream conversation. It is used as a false equivalence, to gain equal air time, "both sides", and attain legitimacy for a wider, darker argument. In that context, no, it is not defensible.
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I don't think our lack of vigilance about policing taboos in racial discussion is what brought ethnonationalism to power.
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hrmm yiss, "perfectly defensible"
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After reading some of the criticisms of the opinion piece, it seems like he made the point while at the same time reinforcing stereotypes of Jews being 'other'.
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Oh yeah, the piece was awful in all sorts of ways.
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