Scientists Gone Wild

INCIDENT:
What's up with Nobel Laureates? Recently James Watson, of DNA molecular structure discovery fame, made some crazy comments about the intelligence of Africans in an interview with The Sunday Times.

Black people 'less intelligent' scientist claims

MORAL:
Now what exactly compels someone who is primarily known for his intelligence, and in science mind you, to make comments without any real scientific basis? Well, granted he eluded to "tests" that have been done but I haven't been too successful in tracking them down. But generalizing over all "blacks" is where I can say he is at fault. Sure there will be genetic differences across populations, but to say that all of a population is this or that, is simply not true. We all know exceptions to the stereotypes.

There were some interesting comments posted on the site in response to the article. One question was regarding society's reaction/acceptance if scientific evidence was found to support Watson's claims. This is a really fascinating question. If science finds data to counter our societal norms, we will be able to accept it? And even if science does find evidence to the contrary of our beliefs as a society, how much weight can we really give to it? In a world where scientific research is constantly being manipulated or misinterpreted in the popular media, would such research start acceptable widespread stereotyping? Or would it lead us to question our own ideals?

UPDATE: James Watson's comments were denounced by his colleagues at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, which subsequently has lead to his suspension as president and director of the laboratory. Watson was on a book tour promoting his new book, ‘Avoid Boring People: Lessons from a Life in Science’, when he received word of his suspension. He canceled his book tour in light of recent events.

You can read his response to his reported comments here: Scientist James Watson flies home after employers suspend him

UPDATE TO THE UPDATE: James Watson has retired as President and Chancellor of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. You can read the announcement here: Dr. James D. Watson Retires as Chancellor of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory