Eugenics

What is artificial selection?

When a breeder selects individuals from a population based on desired traits to breed and produce offspring with those traits.

What are examples of artificial selection?

Plants, dogs, and cats.

How was eugenics applied in the 19th century?

Through practices by breeders based on desired human traits.

How was eugenics applied in the 20th century?

Through practices and theories developed by geneticists.

Who is considered the father of classical eugenics?

Francis Galton.

What did Galton believe about desirable human traits?

That they were inherited from parents.

What is eugenics?

The study and application of methods under human control to improve the quality of future generations.

What is genetic determinism?

The belief that nature, not nurture, determines individual qualities.

What is directional evolution?

A set of beliefs and practices aiming to genetically improve the human population.

What is positive eugenics?

Encouraging reproduction by the genetically advantaged—healthy, intelligent, and successful individuals.

What is negative eugenics?

Preventing reproduction by those with physically, mentally, or morally "undesirable" traits.

What law was passed in Connecticut in 1896?

A law prohibiting marriage of epileptic, imbecilic, or feeble-minded individuals.

What did Indiana do in 1907 regarding eugenics?

Passed a law allowing forced sterilization to eliminate socially undesirable traits.

What was the purpose of eugenic sterilization in men and women?

Men: to eliminate criminal behavior/aggression; Women: to control reproduction.

What is an example of modern negative eugenics?

Eliminating embryos from implantation based on genetic content.

What is an example of modern positive eugenics?

Choosing the best embryos for implantation based on genetic health.

What is 21st century eugenics?

Geneticist-driven practices including IVF, PGD (preimplantation genetic diagnosis), and genetic engineering.

What is modern eugenics?

Market-based, consumer-driven practices where embryos and children can be designed or selected like products.