The "Superior Race" in America and the Misuse of Genetics (#2194)

Sir Francis Galton coined the term ‘eugenics’ (or noble birth) to describe the process of improving the human race through managed breeding. Positive eugenics refers to efforts that encouraged people with ‘desirable traits’ to have children and negative eugenics refers to efforts to discourage people with ‘undesirable traits’ from having children. In the United States, the eugenics movement was supported by influential politicians, industrialists, and scientists. The aim of this movement was to promote a healthier, smarter, and more moral population of Americans. This class will investigate how the science of genetics was used and misused to further this aim. Finally, we will discuss how the concerns of the eugenicists echo in today’s society and what lessons we can learn from the mistakes of the past. This class should provide some very stimulating discussion!