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Questions and Answers
What is the main focus of Euthenics?
Who first used the term Euthenics in their writings?
How does Eugenics differ from Euthenics?
What is the Greek origin of the word Euthenics?
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What does Euthenics emphasize as a condition for human vitality?
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What does the term euthenics refer to?
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Who coined the term eugenics?
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What is the main idea of negative eugenics?
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In ancient Sparta, positive eugenics aimed to cultivate which characteristics in its citizens?
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What was one application of positive eugenics in modern times?
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Study Notes
Euthenics
- Focuses on improving human functioning and well-being through enhancing living conditions.
- Coined by Ellen Swallow Richards, who described it as the “science of better living”.
- Enhancements involve controllable environmental factors like shelter and education.
- Ellen Richards emphasized that human vitality relies on heredity and hygiene—conditions before and after birth.
- Represents immediate action for better living conditions, contributing to the present generation's health.
Eugenics
- Defined as the study and science of improving the human species through selective mating for desirable hereditary traits.
- Aims to reduce suffering by eliminating diseases and disabilities through selective breeding.
- Coined by Sir Francis Galton, who believed mental abilities and traits are inherited like physical traits.
- Galton's perspective is rooted in his research on the lineage of eminent individuals, attributing their success to superior genetics.
- Divided into two categories:
- Negative Eugenics: Discouraging reproduction among those deemed “unfit”.
- Positive Eugenics: Encouraging reproduction among healthy and intelligent individuals.
Historical Context
- Euthenics emerged in the early 20th century, seen as a precursor to eugenics.
- Modern definitions highlight improving humankind through modifications in living conditions and education.
- Societal practices resembling positive eugenics date back to ancient Sparta, where selective breeding produced strong warriors.
- Historical applications of eugenics included enforced sterilization practices for those considered mentally unfit.
Key Differences
- Euthenics emphasizes present improvements through environmental factors, while eugenics looks at long-term genetic enhancements.
- Euthenics provides immediate opportunities for enhancement, whereas eugenics requires more thorough investigation and ethical considerations.
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Description
Explore the concepts of euthenics and eugenics in this quiz, focusing on the improvement of human well-being through living conditions and genetic traits. Understand the historical context provided by Ellen Richards in her book on euthenics, published in 1910. Test your knowledge on these important social sciences.
