In the Name of Eugenics: Genetics and the Uses of Human Heredity

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.

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

About the Author :
Daniel Kevles is Stanley Woodward Professor of History and Law at Yale University.

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. 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. All the more powerful for confronting folly [with] urbanity and a clear eye. 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. The finest of all books on the history of eugenics.