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The objective of this research is to investigate positions taken by the narrator of the series “Bons dias!”, Policarpo, created by Machado de Assis, referring to: racial theory, epidemics and science in nineteenth century Brazil. We will take as corpus the chronicles of the series “Bons dias!”, that approach these subjects.The slavery abolition, which occurred on May 13, 1888, among other changes that were taking place in Brazil during the late nineteenth century, such as the discussion regarding the urbanization of Rio de Janeiro city, the fight against epidemics that were devastating the city (yellow fever and malaria), and the debates regarding racial theories allowed the series of chronicles “Bons dias!” to build meanings amongst the readers regarding the latest events.With the analysis of the chosen chronicles it is possible to approach the opinions of Machado de Assis on the events of his time. Machado, “in the voice” ironic of Policarpo, observed and commented on the analyzed themes, being contrary to several opinions of the ruling elite of nineteenth-century Brazil, regarding racial theory, epidemics and science in Brazil. Machado de Assis, through his character, Policarpo, proved to be a critic of various attitudes of the ruling class.

This article contests the contention that sociology lacks a sound theoretical approach to the study of race and racism, instead arguing that a comprehensive and critical sociological theory of race and racism exists. This article outlines this theory of race and racism, drawing from the work of key scholars in and around the field. This consideration of the state of race theory in sociology leads to four contentions regarding what a critical and comprehensive theory of race and racism should do: (1) bring race and racism together into the same analytical framework; (2) articulate the connections between racist ideologies and racist structures; (3) lead us towards the elimination of racial oppression; and (4) include an intersectional analysis.