An international network of activists promoting “race science” has been uncovered, operating with secret funding from a US tech entrepreneur. The group, known as the Human Diversity Foundation, has been spreading discredited ideas about race and eugenics through various channels such as podcasts, videos, and research papers. The group received over $1 million in funding from Andrew Conru, a Seattle businessman who made his fortune from dating websites. However, Conru withdrew his support after concerns were raised about the group’s mission.
While the HDF remains a fringe organization, it is part of a larger movement that seeks to legitimize race science as a topic of open debate. This movement, labeled scientific racism by mainstream academics, aims to prove biological differences between races and attribute inequalities to genetics rather than external factors like discrimination.
The investigation also revealed the involvement of individuals like Erik Ahrens, who has been designated a “rightwing extremist” in Germany. Ahrens was recorded discussing ideas like “remigration” and advocating for the establishment of a “white society.” His connections to the HDF and other far-right activists highlight the dangerous ideologies being promoted by these groups.
The group’s media arm, including the online magazine and podcast Aporia, has been instrumental in spreading these controversial ideas. While presenting itself as an impartial exploration of controversial topics, Aporia’s content has become increasingly political, with headlines focusing on white identity and race realism. The platform has gained a significant following, with subscribers including academics, entrepreneurs, and journalists.
The rise of these ideologies is concerning, as they have real-world consequences and political implications. The use of race science to justify discriminatory policies and promote extremist views is a threat to social cohesion and equality. It is essential to continue exposing and challenging these ideas to prevent them from gaining further traction in mainstream discourse.