RETROSPECT AND PROSPECT 383 



Education is eugenically of value as making possible the develop- 

 ment of a "eugenic conscience" which is now sadly lacking in 

 most people of culture. It is a hopeful sign that here and there 

 among people who have inherited a generous measure of desirable 

 traits eugenic considerations have led to the rearing of larger 

 families. On the other hand, many who are aware that they 

 carry a hereditary taint refrain from transmitting a possible 

 affliction to their posterity. With a higher standard of education 

 and a diffusion of the sense of obligation to transmit socially 

 valuable qualities conditions might conceivably be changed so 

 that a greater relative fecundity would come to characterize the 

 more vigorous, intelligent and public-spirited members of the 

 community. Those who have been most fortunate in the posses- 

 sion of hereditary gifts should feel that upon them rests an un- 

 usual obligation to see that their qualities are not allowed to 

 perish from the earth. The race has its fate in its own hands to 

 make or to mar. Will it ever take itself in hand and shape its 

 own destiny? 



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