<p>Well, I think it's idealism more than religion. I consider myself to be very socially liberal, and I have a strong avocational interest in the sociology of science*, but I don't think affirmative action is something that will, or ought to, be in place permanently. And of course it involves sacrifices -- any admissions policy involves sacrifices, since admissions is basically one big signal detection problem.</p>
<p>At any rate, I'm taking a course this semester called Social Issues in Biology, and we'll be discussing "the 'science' of behavior, ethnicity and race" on February 8. I'm hoping to pick up some interesting discussion points from the class. (I am also hoping that I do not have to utter the words "On this college discussion board I frequent..." during the in-class discussion. But I think it may be unavoidable. :))</p>
<p>(Actually, it is avocational if it's *about my vocation? A mystery for the ages.)</p>