BOOK REVIEW: Can you even argue with a racist?
Adam Rutherford argues that pseudoscience is increasingly being used to bolster racist ideologies
13 February 2020 - 05:00
For all its intentions, Adam Rutherford’s new book, How to Argue With a Racist: History, Science, Race and Reality, may not pass muster.
This is not to suggest that it’s a waste of time; on the contrary, Rutherford offers much to consider in a timely work. It’s just that, well, history, science, race and reality count for little when arguing with bigots and other irrational people. Or as Jonathan Swift put it back in the early 1700s: “Reasoning will never make a man correct an ill opinion, which by reasoning he never acquired.”..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.