CHAPTER XXXV 

 HUMAN CONSERVATION 1 



HERBERT E. WALTER 



I. HOW MANKIND MAY BE IMPROVED 



There are two fundamental ways to bring about human better- 

 ment, namely, by improving the individual and by improving the race. 

 The first method consists in making the best of whatever heritage 

 has been received by placing the individual in the most favorable 

 environment and developing his capacities to the utmost through 

 education. The second method consists in seeking a better heritage 

 with which to begin the life of the individual. The first method is 

 immediate and urgent for the present generation. The second method 

 is concerned* with ideals for the future, and consequently does not 

 usually present so strong an appeal to the individual. 



The first is the method of euthenics, or the science of learning to 

 live well. The second is eugenics, which Galton defines as " the science 

 of being well born." 



These two aspects of human betterment, however, are inseparable. 

 Any hereditary characteristic must be regarded, not as an independent 

 entity, but as a reaction between the germplasm and its environment. 

 The biologist who disregards the fields of educational endeavor and 

 environmental influence, is equally at fault with the sociologist who 

 fails sufficiently to realize the fundamental importance of the germ- 

 plasm. 



Without euthenic opportunity the best of heritages would never 

 fully come to its own. Without the eugenic foundation the best 

 opportunity fails of accomplishment. The euthenic point of view, 

 however, must not distract the attention now, for the present chapter 

 is particularly concerned with the program of eugenics. 



2. MORE FACTS NEEDED 



Since the point of attack in human heredity must be largely 

 statistical, it is of the first importance to collect more facts. Our 

 actual knowledge is confused with a mass of tradition and opinion, 



1 From H. E. Walter, Genetics (copyright 1913). Used by special permission 

 of the publishers, The Macmillan Company. 



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