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Racial hereditarian research remains unjustified and harmful: A reply to Woodley et al. (2025a, b)

Author

Listed:
  • Bird, Kevin A.
  • Jackson, John P.
  • Winston, Andrew S.

Abstract

In two simultaneously published articles in Intelligence, Woodley et al. (2025a, b) claimed that the RHR literature is very small, lacks impact and influence, and poses no special risks. The articles critiqued Bird, et al. (2024) which presented evidence of ongoing “racial hereditarian research” (RHR) in Psychology, its use by racial extremists, and the assistance of RHR psychologists to racial extremist groups. Woodley et al. (2025 a, b) ignored the evidence in Bird et al. (2024) and the past and present harm caused by long-discredited claims that African genes are associated with lower intelligence and morality. We correct false statements in Woodley et al. (2025a,b) and refute their claims that the application of rigorous standards would “undermine science” and constitutes “censorship.”

Suggested Citation

  • Bird, Kevin A. & Jackson, John P. & Winston, Andrew S., 2025. "Racial hereditarian research remains unjustified and harmful: A reply to Woodley et al. (2025a, b)," Intelligence, Elsevier, vol. 113(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:intell:v:113:y:2025:i:c:s0160289625000704
    DOI: 10.1016/j.intell.2025.101967
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Brian B Boutwell & Joseph L Nedelec & Bo Winegard & Todd Shackelford & Kevin M Beaver & Michael Vaughn & J C Barnes & John P Wright, 2017. "The prevalence of discrimination across racial groups in contemporary America: Results from a nationally representative sample of adults," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 12(8), pages 1-8, August.
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