1. As a species, humans are extremely diverse, and yet our biological diversity cannot be partitioned into discrete types, subspecies, or races. At the same time, race functions as a social and political category that imposes inequality in some societies. How have cultural beliefs about race affected the interpretation of biological diversity in the past? What are the cultural beliefs about biological diversity in your community today?
2. While we can see and scientifically explain population diffferences in skin color, why is it invalid to us the biologicl concept of supspecies or race when referring to humans? Can you imagine another species of animal, plant, or microorganism for which he subspecies concept makes sense?
3. Globally, health statistics are gathered by country. In addition, some countries such as the United States gather health statistics by race. How are these two endeavors different and similar? Should statisticians gather health statistics by grouping?
4. How do you define the concept of intelligence? Do you think scientists will ever be able to discover the genetic basis of intelligence?
5. Cultural practices affect microevolutionary changes in the human species and often have dramatic effects on human health. Do you see examples of structural violence in your community that make some individuals more vulnerable to disease than others? Do you see examples globally?