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University of Nebraska Medical Center

Anatomy and Genetics

white coats for black lives

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Medicine must recognize that early contributions from scientists like Carl LinnaeusSamuel Morton, Samuel Cartwright and others laid the groundwork for a classification system of racial hierarchy and biologic inferiority.  They studied anatomical differences among different races and used this science to infer certain aspects of personality and character and used it to justify white superiority and validate slavery. 

This paved the way for the eugenics movement which encouraged processes like selective breeding to improve population health.  In the United States, this led to injustices such as forced sterilization and segregation.

If you are interested in reading more about race, anatomy, and genetics, please see the resources below: 

History of Racism in Science Jeremy Morris for Wofford College Anti Racism Coalition 2021