Penn Lightbulb Café Presents ‘Fatal Invention: Re-creating Race in Genomic Era’
WHO: Dorothy Roberts
Penn Integrates Knowledge Professor
George A. Weiss University Professor of Law and Sociology, Raymond Pace and Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander Professor of Civil Rights, Professor of Africana Studies, and director of the Program on Race, Science and Society
WHAT: Penn Lightbulb Café: “Fatal Invention: Re-creating Race in Genomic Era”
WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 15, 6-7 p.m.
WHERE: World Cafe Live Upstairs, 3025 Walnut St., Philadelphia
After the human genome was mapped, there was an unexpected resurgence of scientific interest in genetic differences between races. Some scientists are defining race as a biological category written in our genes, while the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries convert the new race science into race-based products, such as race-specific medicines and ancestry tests. Professor Roberts argues that the genetic interpretation of race is not only mistaken but also masks the continuing impact of racism in a supposedly post-racial society. Instead, she calls for affirming common humanity by working to end social inequities supported by the political system of race.
The talk is part of the Penn Lightbulb Café free public-lecture series presented by Penn Arts & Sciences and the Office of University Communications that takes arts, humanities and social-sciences scholarship out of the classroom for a night on the town. Each hour-long talk begins at 6 p.m., and the presentation will be followed by an audience Q&A. Café events are free and open to the public. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Seating is limited.
