Racial realism

Racial realism is a term used to describe two directly opposed positions, both motivated by the perceived durability and social importance of racial distinctions.

The term racial realism has been used to describe the claim that racial distinctions are socially constructed but enduringly important because dominant social forces continually reinforce them.

The term has also been used to describe the claim that races are real rather than social constructs, and that racial distinctions are enduringly important because racial groups differ by nature (genetically) with regard to such important behavioral tendencies as intelligence and impulsiveness. This claim holds that racial distinctions are real and measurable, and further claims those measurable differences are based in science instead of idealism.

Examples of scientifically demonstrable racial distinctions are said to include different decision and reaction times, intelligence, crime rates, and medical characteristics, such as differing tendencies toward diseases such as osteoporosis or sickle cell anemia.

The second definition is the older and far more common definition. Critics often claim that racial realism is a form of scientific racism.

Notable racial realists
The following is a list of individuals and organizations who have self-identified as racial realist.

Individuals

 * Derrick Bell - law professor
 * Chris Brand - psychological and psychometric researcher
 * David Duke - white nationalist, politician
 * Nick Griffin - British National Party
 * Jared Taylor - American Renaissance

Groups

 * American Renaissance - white nationalist magazine
 * British National Party - far-right political party