There's a distinction between drawing a conclusion (and thus acting on it) and noticing a possible trend that can be investigated further. One is asking a quest

There's a distinction between drawing a conclusion (and thus acting on it) and noticing a possible trend that can be investigated further. One is asking a question, one is answering it. If you draw the conclusion you've already assumed an answer. This is where the danger is. People who form biases are assuming the answer without the supporting evidence. To address your second point: As a natural scientist (as in endlessly curious) I often wonder about genetic differences in racist and how they effect outward traits. From a public policy perspective, I totally understand why most scientists and government officials wouldn't touch those questions with a 10 foot pole. There is just far more potential for negative consequences than positives.