Race theory was an instrument usable by both contending parties

Evidence

This type of coding, or at least the elements that were available for this coding, came into play quite naturally. I say “coding” because the theory of races did not function as a particular thesis about one group versus another. The racial divide and the systematic opposition between races were in fact a sort of instrument, both discursive and political, that allowed both sides to formulate their own theses. — Michel Foucault, Society Must Be Defended, 3092

Categorization

• DEFINE: Foucault defines race struggle as a neutral discursive instrument of coding, not a partisan claim favoring one side.
• XREF: This anticipates the Foucault reading on race as an instrument convertible into state racism and biopolitics.