Eugenics


Book Description

A concise and gripping account of eugenics from its origins in the twentieth century and beyond.




Eugenics and Protestant Social Reform


Book Description

The eugenics movement prior to the Second World War gave voice to the desire of many social reformers to promote good births and prevent bad births. Two sources of cultural authority in this period, science and religion, often found common cause in the promotion of eugenics. The rhetoric of biology and theology blended in strange ways through a common framework known as degeneration theory. Degeneration, a core concept of the eugenics movement, served as a key conceptual nexus between theological and scientific reflection on heredity among Protestant intellectuals and social reformers in the late nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. Elite efforts at social control of the allegedly "unfit" took the form of negative eugenics. This included marriage restrictions and even sterilization for many who were identified as having a suspect heredity. Speculations on heredity were deployed in identifying the feeble-minded, hereditary criminals, hereditary alcoholics, and racial minorities as presumed hindrances to the progress of civilization. A few social reformers trained in biology, anthropology, criminology, and theology eventually raised objections to the eugenics movement. Still, many thousands of citizens on the margins were labeled as defectives and suffered human rights violations during this turbulent time of social change.




The Social Direction of Evolution: An Outline of the Science of Eugenics


Book Description

The Social Direction of Evolution: An Outline of the Science of Eugenics is a work by William E. Kellicott. Excerpt: "Eugenics has been defined as "the science of being well born." In the words of Sir Francis Galton, who may fairly be claimed as the founder of this newest of sciences, "Eugenics is the study of the agencies under social control, that may improve or impair the racial qualities of future generations, either physically or mentally." The idea of definitely undertaking to improve the innate characteristics of the human race has been expressed repeatedly through centuries—fancifully, seriously, hopefully, and now scientifically. Since the times of Theognis and of Plato the student of animate Nature has been aware of the possibility of the degradation or of the elevation of the human race-characters. The conditions under which life exists gradually change: the customs and ideals of societies change rapidly. Times inevitably come when, if we are to maintain or to advance our racial position, we find it necessary to change in an adaptive way our attitude toward these changing social relations and conditions of life. If we neglect to do this we go down in the racial struggle, as history so clearly and so repeatedly warns us."




Homo-Culture; Or, The Improvement of Offspring Through Wiser Generation


Book Description

In M. L. Holbrook's groundbreaking work, 'Homo-Culture; Or, The Improvement of Offspring Through Wiser Generation', the author delves into the science and ethics of selective breeding to improve the human race. Written with a blend of academic rigor and social commentary, Holbrook's book explores the controversial topic of eugenics in a thought-provoking manner. Drawing on both scientific research and philosophical arguments, the author presents a compelling case for the potential benefits and dangers of altering the genetic makeup of future generations. The prose is clear and concise, making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience interested in the intersections of science and society. Set against the backdrop of the late 19th century when eugenics was gaining traction as a legitimate field of study, 'Homo-Culture' remains a relevant and timely read for contemporary readers interested in the ethical implications of genetic engineering. M. L. Holbrook, a prominent figure in the eugenics movement, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the subject matter of selective breeding. As a respected scientist and thinker, Holbrook's insights offer valuable perspectives on the potential risks and rewards of manipulating human heredity. Recommended for readers interested in the history of science, bioethics, and social progress, 'Homo-Culture' challenges readers to consider the implications of playing god with our genetic destiny.







Heredity and Social Fitness


Book Description




Heredity and Human Progress (1900)


Book Description

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.