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richardhutnik said:
silicon said:
Racism is basically treating someone unfairly.

This concept is so rooted in our nature that chimps behave the same way.

http://healthyliving.msn.com/pregnancy-parenting/kids-health/chimpanzees-like-humans-seem-to-have-sense-of-fairness

Is something right or wrong, simply because it is rooted in one's nature?  Or, can one go deeper regarding this?  Impulses for violence are also rooting in human nature, but that doesn't make the outbursts of violence right.


I agree that simply being human instinct isn't enough to judge whether something is wrong or right. However, what makes something right or wrong is the awareness of our actions. Whether something is wrong is strongly tied to the perspective one takes at a specific scenario.

We're all human, and we make mistakes. We can harm others whether we are aware of it or not. Racism is a human instinct, just like violence, and people  are susceptible to being racist. Some more than others. However, with racism, if we are aware that racism exists, and that knowingly acting in a racist manner can cause others harm, then I think it's fair to acknoledge that racism is wrong. 

Violence, like racism is an interesting human instinct. In certain situations it is wrong. Such as when a husband beats his wife. However, if someone is being attacked, then the instinct for violence can help that person survive. 

Racism like violence has practical uses, which has helped humanity get to where we are today. Unfortunately it's an instinct that's no longer very relevant.