Franz Boas, fully Franz Uri Boas

We do not discuss the anatomical, physiological, and mental characteristics of man considered as an individual; but we are interested in the diversity of these traits in groups of men found in different geographical areas and in different social classes.

Remember that in every single case in history the process of adaptation has been one of exceeding slowness. Do not look for the impossible, but do not let your path deviate from the quiet and steadfast insistence on full opportunities for your powers.

If we were to select the most intelligent, imaginative, energetic, and emotionally stable third of mankind, all races would be present.

It is our task to inquire into the causes that have brought about the observed differentiation, and to investigate the sequence of events that have led to the establishment of the multifarious forms of human life.

The behavior of an individual is determined not by his racial affiliation, but by the character of his ancestry and his cultural environment.