WHAT GENETICS IS 



"An exact determination of the laws of heredity," says William 

 Bateson, "will probably work more change in man's outlook on the 

 world, and in his power over nature, than any other advance in 

 natural knowledge that can be clearly foreseen." 



To gain this knowledge is the object of the science of genetics, which 

 proceeds, in practice, largely by means of plant breeding and animal breeding 

 for the reason that heredity is less complicated in these organisms than in 

 Man, and its operation can be more easily made out. The knowledge so 

 gained finds its application in methods for the improvement of cultivated 

 plants and domesticated animals and, most important of all, in the improve- 

 ment of the human race through the science of eugenics, which was defined 

 by its founder, Francis Galton, as "the study of agencies under social control 

 that may improve or impair the racial qualities of future generations, either 

 physically or mentally." 



THE AMERICAN GENETIC ASSOCIATION 



is an incorporated organization, cooperative in nature. It is devoted to 

 promoting a knowledge of the laws of heredity and their application to the 

 improvement of plants, animals, and human racial stocks. 



It owns the Journal of Heredity, which is published monthly and 

 sent free to each member. 



REQUIREMENTS FOR MEMBERSHIP 



Membership is composed of men of science, teachers, publicists, physi- 

 cians, clergymen, parents, students, horticulturists and breeders of live 

 stock, etc., throughout the world. 



Subject to the approval of the council, any person interested in the 

 improvement of the human race or the creation of better varieties of plants 

 and animals, is eligible for membership. 



The secretary will be glad to correspond with those interested, and to 

 send a copy of the magazine for examination. 



Annual dues, giving the right to attend all meetings and receive the 

 Journal of Heredity, are $2; life membership is $50. 



If you want to become a member, or if you know anyone who you 

 think is eligible for membership, write to 



THE AMERICAN GENETIC ASSOCIATION 



511 Eleventh Street Northwest Washington, D. C, U. S. A. 



