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32 Canadian J. Criminology 335 (1990)
Rushton on Race and Crime: The Evidence Remains Unconvincing

handle is hein.journals/cjccj32 and id is 345 raw text is: Rushton on Race and Crime: The Evidence Remains Unconvincing' THOMAS GABOR AND JULIAN V. ROBERTS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINOLOGY UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA OTTAWA, ONTARIO In this brief note, we respond to Rushton's continued emphasis on the role genetic factors play in explaining crime patterns. Specifically, we examine the new data Rushton has provided to sustain his theory that a hierarchy of races exists, which is reflected in the differential crime rates of the races. On the topic of race and crime, Radzinowicz and King (1977: 35-36) have written: There is a persistent tendency to regard with suspicion those of different origins, to try to assert their inferiority in intelligence, morality or both. To enter into open discussion of links between race and crime is to enter a mine- field. Politically the issue is dynamite. Claims that certain ethnic groups are inferior have served, throughout history, to justify all kinds of persecution, oppression, exploitation. Sagarin (1980: 18) has also called for those investigating areas such as race and crime to exercise special sensitivity: ... one must be aware of the volatile nature of the material with which one is dealing, and the responsible criminologist offers findings with special care and circumspection when their potential for social harm is great. Silberman (1978: 117) has further noted: ... it is impossible to talk honestly about the role of race in American life without offending and angering both whites and blacks - and Hispanic browns and native American reds as well. The truth is too terrible on all sides; and we are all too accustomed to the soothing euphemisms and inflammatory rhetoric with which the subject is cloaked. 335

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