Re:Ask HN: Need list of genders, races, religions for data app
by covfefenut on Thursday June 08, 2017 @12:27AM
(#14511907)
I don't really know how to say this, but there is a survey option to this where they need all of that info for some statistical thing they are doing with this new web app.
I'm using a throwaway nick so my boss won't know I am asking here and using a friend's computer for the IP.
Re:Ask HN: Need list of genders, races, religions for data app
by Cozumel on Thursday June 08, 2017 @12:06PM
(#14515126)
> 'I'm using a throwaway nick so my boss won't know I am asking here and using a friend's computer for the IP.'
It doesn't matter that you've changed your name or IP address. It's what you're asking, it's very specific and is more than enough to identify you should your boss stumble on this, it might be worth considering deleting this thread if that's a real concern.
> avoid offending them
Start with a long list. Facebook has a long list of gender options, so you could start by copying that. Add options for "decline to state" or "not listed" and stop there.
> list them all, the whole list of them that peer reviewed neutral third parties ala science has proof of
Gender is a social construct, not a scientific one. It's generally up to the individual to decide. The same is true of religion, sexual orientation, and pronouns.
Colors of skin is an absurd thing to include. You're going to come off as very weird if you have people identify their skin color.
Race is potentially a scientific construct, but there is no general consensus on how to define or separate races. Everyone is on multiple continua of races.
If you're talking about ethnicity instead of just race alone, you're also talking about many thousands of options. Just don't include it.