Why is the term "race" only applied to humans ?

Question

Why is the term "race" only applied to humans ?

Answer 1

We feel we are the superior species. We're not, we just think so.

Answer 2

I don't know, but feel free to apply it to whatever you want to apply it to.  I see no reason why you shouldn't.  Do you ?

PS It is also applied to Race cars.

Answer 3

In other species it's called a breed, like breed of dog, cat, or cow.  They can interbreed and have viable offspring, but "purebreds" do have distinguishable features.

We like to give outselves different names, hence the term "race".  In people, however, it has become obvious that there are so many variations along a continuum of so many different traits, that "race" doesn't really have any meaning.

Genetics, however, is the study of how information is passed from generation to generation.  But it doesn't deal with race, per se, just skin pigmentation as a neutral feature among many.

Answer 4

good question.  everybody else has species

Answer 5

ironically enough the rat race is also used to describe humans...

Answer 6

Race is a man-made concept (socially constructed). The idea that there is such a thing as "pure" race, and that people can be categorized based purely on physical characteristics is the reason why this concept is so politically and socially controversial.