Caucasian
Caucasian
Caucasian (pronunciation: /kɔːˈkeɪʒən/) is a term used in various different ways across disciplines such as anthropology, genetics, and sociology. It is often used to describe people of European descent, but its usage and definition can be controversial and is considered outdated in many scientific contexts.
Etymology
The term "Caucasian" originated from the Caucasus region, located between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. It was first used by the German anthropologist Johann Friedrich Blumenbach in the 18th century to classify human races. Blumenbach believed that the people of the Caucasus region represented the original human race, hence the term "Caucasian".
Usage
In anthropology, "Caucasian" has been used to describe a physical type characterized by light to moderate pigmentation and a certain range of morphological features. However, this usage is considered outdated and has been largely abandoned in favor of more precise terms.
In the United States, the term "Caucasian" is often used in a different sense, as a synonym for "white" or "of European descent". This usage is common in demographic forms and legal contexts, but it is criticized by some for its lack of scientific basis and potential for confusion.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Caucasian
- Wikipedia's article - Caucasian
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