Modern Eugenics

Introduction

There are three major types of eugenics which have existed throughout history: natural, conventional, and modern. The first and original type of eugenics is known as evolution or natural selection. The inferior members of a species do not procreate due to the fact of survival of the fittest, only the strong survive. It has been proven that the substandard species die out as a result of overpopulation of stronger species and extinction of their own kind. Also, because most animals naturally prefer to mate with the most successful members of their respective species, the inferior of a given species are not nearly as likely to procreate even if they survive. Therefore, their genetic material and inferior characteristics are effectively removed from the gene pool of that species.

The second major type of eugenics is defined as conventional eugenics. The most prominent eugenic interest is what is referred to as “selective breeding.” This can be defined as “in domesticated animals is the process of a breeder developing a cultivated breed over time, and selecting qualities within individuals of the breed that will be best to pass on to the next generation.” This process is extremely controversial in the public eye and has been constantly disputed over since the onset of its presence. Generally, breeders examine which stock is of the finest quality and emphasis those traits which make the animal superior. The overall goal is to create the strongest, most flawless collection. So, instead of having to wait years for the environment to remove the inferior organisms from the gene pool, the breeder is able to act as soon as the subject has matured.

Currently, a third type of eugenics is rising, which is known as modern eugenics or genetic engineering. This type of science removes evolution from the reproductive process. It may be the most familiar and most accessible type society is exposed to. It transforms the development of the human species into a science involving test tubes and “fake genes.” There is nothing natural or personal about it.

Francis Fukuyama: Our Posthuman Future

Francis Fukuyama is a highly respected philosopher, political economist and author. We believe that to properly understand the field of Modern Eugenics, it is important to take into consideration the works of Fukuyama, specifically his book titled, "Our Posthuman Future" discusses how recent inroads in bio-medical research has allowed scientists to completely alter the human race using gene selection and genetic engineering. In the book, Fukuyama talks about the outcome of a world filled with manipulated DNA and possibly dangerous descendants. Using these themes and ideas as a centerpiece, we can continue our look into Modern Eugenics and paint a picture of what such a world would be like to live in.

Designer Babies

Genetic Engineering

Genetic Engineering is the specific term given to the process in which the forced manipulation of DNA is used to

Bibliography

Bruinius, Harry. 2006. Better for all the world: the secret history of forced sterilization and America's quest for racial purity. New York: Knopf.

Science Books (2003, October 19). Five studies on the widely varied uses -- and abuses -- of science :[FINAL Edition]. The Washington Post,p. T10. Retrieved November 22, 2008, from ProQuest Newsstand database. (Document ID: 425227791).