I can see where the census is coming from. I worked for the census in 2000(pretty much the best job a high schooler could have) and remember people offering alternative racial categories. The form, if memory serves, has a spot for write in and they let you pick multiple categories. The vast majority identify with the ones listed and a few want to be something not listed. It all works out pretty well.
In this case they got a number of people in 2000 writing in negro and thought they would include it since people are stating it. I can see the issue, but I think in this case giving them the benefit of the doubt is in order.
As for removing the question entirely, sure race is arbitrary distinction, but so is the boundary of cities and regions, religion, and notions of class. Money is a made up form of exchange as are the degrees people earn.
These things have social and political significance and provide interesting and important statistical information that help us understand the current state of this country. Removing the question only hides the issue.
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Date: 8/1/10 00:36 (UTC)In this case they got a number of people in 2000 writing in negro and thought they would include it since people are stating it. I can see the issue, but I think in this case giving them the benefit of the doubt is in order.
As for removing the question entirely, sure race is arbitrary distinction, but so is the boundary of cities and regions, religion, and notions of class. Money is a made up form of exchange as are the degrees people earn.
These things have social and political significance and provide interesting and important statistical information that help us understand the current state of this country. Removing the question only hides the issue.