Eugenics and Genetics

Flashcards covering key concepts and vocabulary related to the eugenics movement and genetics.

Eugenics

A movement aimed at improving the genetic composition of the human population through controlled breeding.

Eugenics Record Office

Established in 1910, it was devoted to the study of biological forces determining the capacities and limitations of humans.

Charles B. Davenport

The director of the Eugenics Record Office who played a key role in the early eugenics movement.

Thomas H. Morgan

An early proponent of the eugenics movement who later questioned aspects of genetic inheritance.

Polygenic traits

Traits that are influenced by multiple genes rather than a single gene.

Natural selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Phenotype

The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, as determined by both genetic makeup and environmental influences.

Differential fecundity

The varying reproductive success of individuals within a population.

Designer babies

Babies whose genetic characteristics are artificially selected or modified, often discussed in the context of ethical considerations in genetics.