From the best biology we know: the
acquisition of traits (phenotype) is both a product of nature (genotype) and
nurture. Is it racist to say that we
should not expect a cat to do calculus?
Is it racist to say a mouse may never be able to write a book? These are rhetorical questions, but as a
bottom line I would say it is good to not expect complete uniformity of ability
in all of Hashem’s created beings, which of course does not dictate license for
bigotry.
G-d does not harbor excess in His
creation. When something exists, it is
supposed to be that way because Hashem has ordained for it to be as such. Thus, it is such that while I won’t deny anyone,
even a different species of animal or a computer (maybe someday), proper education
if aptitude is demonstrated, there does come a time when we should realize that
it is cruel to hold onto expectations that the problem of dumbness be
alleviated merely by endless hard work.
Rather, we should give credit and encouragement where it is due.
Should we expect a human to run as fast
as a cheetah? Should we expect humans to
regularly give birth to as many offspring as mice? Some of our greatest strengths may be in our inherent
differences because created species, nations, and beings are not meant to be
completely alike.
