What term do biologists sometimes use instead of race?
How do biologists define genetic variation in a species?
The term 'race' is generally avoided in biology. Race implies social and cultural aspects, not biological distinctions. Instead, terms like 'subsistence' are used. Greater genetic variation exists within 'races' than between them prompting focus on ancestry over race.
Definition of Genetic Variation in a Species
In biology, the term 'race' is not typically used as it is often associated with social and cultural aspects rather than biological differences. Instead, biologists use terms such as 'subsistence' when defining genetic variation in a species.
Contrary to popular belief, studies have indicated that there is substantially more genetic variation within a racial category than between racial categories. In the scientific and biological context, race is generally not a useful variable and its continued application can cause misunderstanding and harm. Focusing on a person's ancestry rather than their race can provide a better understanding of human genetic diversity.
Moreover, the social construction of race has become more accepted in understanding racial categories rather than biological definitions of race. Social science organizations have rejected older explanations of race. Therefore, the concept of race in biology is understood by more complex factors than a set of shared physical attributes.