The special evil of racism lies in its historical tie to the “social and systematic horrors” of slavery

Full Answer Section

Taking a Skeptical Approach:

However, one could argue that focusing solely on the historical connection might understate the current harms of racism.

• Independent Evil: Racism, even without its historical baggage, can cause immense suffering. It denies individuals and groups equal opportunities, fosters fear and mistrust, and can lead to violence. This intrinsic evil of racism should not be overshadowed by its history.

A More Nuanced View:

Perhaps the most accurate perspective lies somewhere in between. Racism's historical association with atrocities amplifies its current harm. This doesn't diminish the inherent evil of racism itself, but rather highlights how its legacy exacerbates its current effects.

Additional Points to Consider:

• The concept of "race" itself is a social construct, not a biological one. Racism relies on creating artificial distinctions to justify discrimination.
• Racism can be systemic and institutionalized, affecting policies, laws, and social structures that disadvantage certain groups.

Further Discussion:

Is there a way to address both the historical and contemporary harms of racism? How can we ensure that the legacy of past atrocities is not used to justify future discrimination? These are important questions that can guide ongoing efforts to combat racism.

Sample Answer

Agreeing with Blum:

Yes, I agree with Blum to a large extent. Racism's historical connection to atrocities like slavery and genocide makes it a particularly pernicious evil. This connection is twofold:

• The Legacy of Injustice: The horrors of the past were built upon racist ideologies. Knowing that racism fueled such violence creates a moral weight and a sense of ongoing injustice. Present-day racism perpetuates this legacy, implying that the justifications used for past atrocities could be revived.
• The Threat of Repetition: The continued existence of racism suggests a vulnerability to repeating these horrors. When racist rhetoric and policies gain traction, it evokes memories of past oppression and raises concerns that such systems could be implemented again.