Concept

Eugenics

Overview

Eugenics is a largely discredited set of beliefs and practices that aim to improve the genetic quality of a human population. Historically, eugenicists have attempted to alter the frequency of various human phenotypes by inhibiting the fertility of those considered inferior, often through forced sterilization, or promoting that of those considered superior.

The contemporary history of eugenics began in the late 19th century, when a popular eugenics movement emerged in the United Kingdom, which spread to most European countries (e.g., Sweden and Germany), and many other countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Historically, the idea of eugenics has been used to argue for a broad array of practices ranging from prenatal care for mothers deemed genetically desirable to the forced sterilisation and murder of those deemed unfit. To population geneticists, the term has included the avoidance of inbreeding without altering allele frequencies; for example, British-Indian scientist J. B. S. Haldane wrote in 1940 that "the motor bus, by breaking up inbred village communities, was a powerful eugenic agent." Debate as to what qualifies as eugenics continues today.

A progressive social movement promoting eugenics had originated in the 19th century, with diverse support, but by the mid 20th century the term was closely associated with scientific racism and authoritarian coercion. With modern medical genetics, genetic testing and counselling have become common, and new or liberal eugenics rejects coercive programmes in favour of individual parental choice.

Overview adapted from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0; see the article history for authors).

Possible passages

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These are, of course, delusions; a reform, once achieved, is handed over to the average citizen. So, if eugenics reached the point where it could increase desired types, it would not be the types desired by present-day eugenists that would be increased, but rather the types desired by the average official. Prime Ministers, Bishops, and others whom the State considers desirable might become the fathers of half the…
Bertrand Russell, Icarus
The author is tied to Eugenics in the knowledge graph; names Eugenics twice.
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There is no necessity to begin such a system all at once. It might be begun tentatively with certain exceptionally desirable sections of the community. It might then be extended gradually, with the experience of its working which had been derived from the first experiment. If the birth-rate were very much increased, the eugenic conditions exacted might be made more strict.
Bertrand Russell, Why Men Fight
States what Eugenics is; the author is tied to Eugenics in the knowledge graph.
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They monopolise the time, money, and attention which really belong to good books and their noble aims; they are written merely with a view to making money or procuring places. They are not only useless, but they do positive harm.
Arthur Schopenhauer, Essays of Schopenhauer
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Eugenics

Overview

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Philosophers who discussed Eugenics

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