[Steve H.]

It seems to be a recent phenomenon that various governments have decided the keep records based on sex, “race,” “national origin”, age, etc. Does anyone else think this record-keeping should be prohibited? It just convinces us that we are somehow more different than we are more alike. Why does this website ask for this information?

(DIRECTOR’S NOTE: Y? offers its users the option of providing demographic data about themselves when they make postings, in the belief that in various instances this can add context to submissions. Giving of this information is on a strictly voluntary basis and does not increase or decrease the chances of being posted to the site.)

User Detail :  

Name : Steve H., City : Denver, State : CO, Country : United States, 

[A.C.C.]

Keeping records based on race/ethnicity/origin goes back as far as the first U.S. Census in 1790. It’s actually constitutionally protected as being necessary to decide the makeup of Congress, so outlawing it is not possible. It’s also not a good idea. Saying that attempts to keep track of different groups’ progress or problems “causes” racism or prejudice is like saying an emergency room “causes” heart attacks. The treatment may or may not be effective, but the problem was there long before.

User Detail :  

Name : A.C.C., Race : Mexican and American Indian, City : W Lafayette, State : IN, Country : United States, Occupation : Grad student, Education level : Over 4 Years of College, 

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