Synopses & Reviews
Daniel Kevles traces the study and practice of eugenics--the science of "improving" the human species by exploiting theories of heredity--from its inception in the late nineteenth century to its most recent manifestation within the field of genetic engineering. It is rich in narrative, anecdote, attention to human detail, and stories of competition among scientists who have dominated the field.
Review
The historical sweep that [Kevles] brings to bear in this marvellous book should make us ponder over the tenacity of eugenic theories. What does it say about our thought processes and the social structures that foster them? In addition to a gripping text Kevles provides copious notes and an essay on sources. He weaves personal histories into the history of the field so skillfully, blending anecdote, hard science and--albeit in a restricted sense--sociology, all in the correct proportions, all with enviable style and verve, that it is only after putting the book down that you realize you have been instructed while being entertained. Horace Freeland Judson - New Republic
Review
A lucid and intricate history of eugenics...which has long been the preserve of specialists. Yet an understanding of that history is central to informed debate on issues affecting the public in general and scientists in particular. Kevles's lively and informative book makes that debate possible. It deserves a wide audience. New York Times Book Review
Review
A revealing study of the tangled history of the eugenics movement and its relation to the science of human genetics...Kevles makes clear the symbiotic relations between the genuine science of genetics [and] the political programs and prejudices of the eugenicists. Leon J. Kamin
Review
All the more powerful for confronting folly [with] urbanity and a clear eye. Diane B. Paul - Scientific American
Review
The finest of all books on the history of eugenics. Vidyanand Nanjundiah - Journal of Genetics
Synopsis
Nominee, 1996 American Book Awards, Nonfiction Category, Before Columbus Foundation
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [303]-381) and index.
About the Author
Daniel Kevles is the Stanley Woodward Professor of History and Law at Yale University.
Yale University
Table of Contents
Preface, 1995
Preface to the Original Edition I. Francis Galton, Founder of the Faith
II. Karl Pearson for Saint Biometrika
III. Charles Davenport and the Worship of Great Concepts
IV. The Gospel Becomes Popular
V. Deterioration and Deficiency
VI. Measures of Regeneration
VII. Eugenic Enactments
VIII. A Coalition of Critics
IX. False Biology
X. Lionel Penrose and the Colchester Survey
XI. A Reform Eugenics
XII. Brave New Biology
XIII. The Establishment of Human Genetics
XIV. Apogee of the English School
XV. Blood, Big Science, and Biochemistry
XVI. Chromosomes-the Binder's Mistakes
XVII. A New Eugenics
XVIII. Varieties of Presumptuousness
XIX. Songs of Deicide
Notes
Essay on Sources
Acknowledgements
Index