Advancing the Scientific Study of Structural Racism: Concepts, Measures, & Methods

This annual review provides 10 actionable recommendations for advancing the scientific study of structural racism through theoretically grounded and empirically robust measures and methods. By offering conceptual and analytical clarity, these recommendations aim to enhance research rigor on the structure and function of racism. For each recommendation, we (a) delineate key theoretical principles tied to specific features of structural racism, (b) evaluate the strengths and limitations of existing measures and methods, and (c) propose best practices for measurement and modeling that align with theory and rigorous methodologies. Given the complex, multifaceted, and dynamic nature of structural racism, we emphasize the necessity of embracing epistemological and methodological pluralism. Scholars are encouraged to integrate insights through triangulation by leveraging diverse theoretical frameworks, varied data sources, and a wide array of methods. The review concludes by addressing pressing challenges and identifying opportunities for innovative research to deepen our understanding of structural racism and its enduring impacts in racialized societies.

Brown Tyson H, Patricia Homan and Victor Ray. 2025. “Advancing the Scientific Study of Structural Racism: Concepts, Measures, and Methods.” Annual Review of Sociology 51. https://osf.io/9vdgh