Applied Eugenics

by Paul Popenoe

Rethinking human betterment through the science of heredity.

This concise, historical look explains how eugenics proposes shaping mate choice to improve society, and what that means for individuals and communities.

This edition surveys ideas about social pathologies, the psychology of love, and how public attitudes can influence life partner choices. It presents practical questions about health, heredity, and the possible role of culture in guiding more deliberate mating practices, all with a focus on understanding the roots of social improvement. Examines how ideas of health, longevity, and constitution relate to family lineages. Explores how social attitudes and mores might influence mate selection over time. Discusses the balance between personal choice and broader societal goals in eugenics. Considers potential limits and considerations when discussing social reform and reproduction. Ideal for readers interested in the historical debate on heredity, public health, and social policy.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, History

524 pages, Hardcover

First published June 18, 2007

About the author

1888-

Reviews

[Brian Huskie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm fascinated with scientific attempts to explain culture and race throughout history. I don't think we spend enough time talking about scientific consensus on race a hundred years ago or less, and what the implications are for 1) the social issues of today, and 2)our absolute faith in today's popular scientific notions.

[Brian Gillum · Rating 1 out of 5]

Written at a time when genetics was in its infancy and eugenics was mainly a pseudo science used to justify draconian policies against races, ethnicities, the poor, the disabled and others.

What is sad is that even though much of the rubbish has since been debunked the adherents of racial superiority and other such still cling to the theories professed here.

[Ryan Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historically this is a fascinating read. Written at a time when ideas to better society through reproduction where wide spread and considered credible. Recommend to better understand ideas that are intertwined with WWII and perhaps the inspiration of Huxley's Brave New World

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't really know how to rate this book-- from a social justice standpoint, it's a horrifying text. But it's well-written and well-argued. I'm using it as a resource for my next novel about the eugenics movement.

[Yi Chen Chong]

I dislike the ideas of Roswell Hill Johnson, as I do not believe they are practical.