History of EugenicsHistory of EugenicsSocial Studies 20

DefinitionDefinitionA social philosophy which advocates the improvement of human hereditary traits through various forms of intervention

It has been regarded as a social responsibility, an altruistic (practice of selfless concern for the well-being of others) stance in society

Meant to create healthier, strong and/or intelligent people

To save resources

To lessen human suffering

Historical elementsHistorical elements

Justified under state-sponsored discrimination

Forced Sterilization of populations (genetically defective)

Killing of institutionalized peoples

LocationsLocations

Germany

Japan

Canada

United States

Australia

Social Democratic Sweden

http://people.clarkson.edu/~sheilafw/classes/hp201/grayscience/images/States%20with%20eugenics%20laws.jpg

CanadaCanada

Sexual Sterilization Act (1928)

Eugenics (Good Birth)

Alberta government sought to limit the reproduction of many kinds of people (visible minorities, ‘feeble-minded’)

They attributed much of the rise of crime, poverty, alcoholism and other vices to these people

http://images.salon.com/books/review/2006/03/04/bruinius/story.jpg

AmendmentsAmendments

1937 - Dr. W.W. Cross (Minister of Health) deemed the Act too restrictive

Permitted to sterilize for the benefit of the human race rather than the individual

1942 - broaden the category of mental patients who could be directed to undergo sterilization

The Alberta Eugenics Board intended to increase the pace of sterilization

1928 - 19721928 - 1972

Almost 3000 people were sterilized

Regardless of reasons in support - the individuals ability to reproduce is viewed as a violation of their constitutional rights

Furthermore, research has shown that mentally challenged people are no more likely to produce offspring with similar impediment than the population at large

Tools of the TradeTools of the Trade

http://www.nfb.ca/collection/films/fiche/medias.php?id=33077&idMF=5

http://statismwatch.ca/1997/06/

Leilani MuirLeilani Muir

She spent most of her life living in foster homes

1955, entered the Michener Centre in Red Deer, Alberta’s Provincial Training School for Mental Defectives

IQ/Interviewed - deemed a ‘moron’

She was never told of the operation

In 1971, she discovered she could not have children after speaking to her doctor.

Muir ContinuedMuir Continued

She brought charges against the Alberta legislation in 1996

It set a precedent for many future settlements awarded to other sterilization victims

She was awarded $740 000 for wrongful sterilization and wrongful confinement

Over 1200 victims have brought suits against the Alberta Government

AssignmentAssignment

10 minutes

Why is eugenics appealing to the public?

Why is eugenics considered appealing/appalling?

5 minutes - Get together with a few classmates (4 max) and discuss your answers

Thoughts/CommentsThoughts/Comments

What did you think about those that suffered under the Alberta government?

How did the economics of the province play into people’s actions and attitudes?

Human Rights ArticleHuman Rights Article

Reflecting upon the “Human Rights” article I gave you, are there any comments, suggestions or ideas?