Exploration of the Historical Origins and Semantic Debate Surrounding Eugenics

Eugenics has historical roots predating the 19th century, observed in various cultures through selective breeding practices like encouraging procreation of certain categories of men and women. This form of eugenics involved military-style selection processes to eliminate the weak from society. The formalization of eugenics in the 19th century was a top-down state imposition of reproductive rights. There is an ongoing semantic debate about eugenics, with differing opinions on whether everyday practices like selective partnering constitute eugenics. The late 19th century saw the popularization of eugenics, driven by the scienceification of genetic knowledge and the influence of Darwinism. Figures like Galton linked Darwin's theories on animal breeding to human application, leading to the rise of eugenics ideologies.