Eugenics

Eugenics is the study and practice of selective breeding, applied to humans, with the aim of improving the species. It was a widely popular social philosophy in the early 20th century but it has gained disrepute since the Holocaust, in World War II. This modern term and field was formulated by Sir Francis Galton, a cousin of Charles Darwin.

At the peak of its popularity, Eugenics was supported by all time greats like Churchill, Roosevelt and George Bernard Shaw amongst others but it was Adolf Hitler’s belief in and usage of eugenics that led to the holocaust in an attempt to purify the German race. The Nazi abuses such as enforced racial hygiene, human experimentation and extermination of population groups like the Roma and the Jews led to the suspension of Eugenics in the post war period. Until then, it was practiced round the world and promoted by Governments. It promoted higher reproduction for certain people and traits that were desirable and the reduction of reproduction of undesirable ones. Today, Eugenics is seen as a human *Tights violation, which it is. Yet, scientists believe that if used, keeping in mind the bioethics aspect. Eugenics may be used to put an end to hereditary disorders like Thalessemia or Tay sachs disease.

As repeated often, science and its inventions and discoveries are a boon when used properly. To eliminate groups on basis of race or even disabilities or on basis of lesser intelligence is not ethical. Besides, eugenics may perpetuate a loss of genetic diversity and may lead to extinction of many groups.