eugenics etymology

Etymology

  • "Eugenics" is derived from the Greek word "eugenes," meaning "well-born" or "of good stock."

Meaning

  • Eugenics is a pseudoscientific theory and set of practices that promotes the improvement of human genetic traits through selective breeding and controlled reproduction.

Origin

  • The term "eugenics" was first coined by the British scientist Francis Galton in 1883.
  • Galton believed that human intelligence and other desirable traits were inherited and could be improved through selective breeding.
  • In the early 20th century, eugenic ideas gained popularity in many countries, leading to policies such as forced sterilization of individuals deemed "unfit" and immigration restrictions based on race and ethnicity.

Key Concepts

  • Heredity: Eugenics assumes that human traits are primarily determined by genetics.
  • Selective Breeding: Eugenics advocates for the selective breeding of humans to promote desirable traits and eliminate undesirable ones.
  • Population Control: Eugenics often involves measures to control the reproduction of certain groups, such as those deemed "unfit."
  • Eugenic Ideals: Eugenicists typically promote an ideal of "racial purity" and view certain races or ethnic groups as superior to others.

Rejection of Eugenics

  • After World War II, eugenic practices were widely discredited due to their association with Nazi Germany's atrocities.
  • Most scientific organizations today reject eugenic ideas as unethical and scientifically flawed.

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