Eugenics

[Gugel]

So eugenics (socially directed evolution) got a bad rap from the Nazis. That being said, why does everyone pretend like there is no merit to it whatsoever?

There's a ridiculous amount of research suggesting that personality, intelligence, strength, disease susceptiblilty, etc. have large genetic components. Granted it's hard to tell which set of genes will be advantageous in the future, but it seems like at least intellect is a sure bet. By allowing everyone to survive and reproduce, we aren't letting evolution do it's work.

What do you guys think?

[GovmentCheese]

tell me how you plan on bringing your plan to fruition... and you'll see why.

[Gugel]

[ QUOTE ]
tell me how you plan on bringing your plan to fruition... and you'll see why.

[/ QUOTE ]

I'm just saying, theoretically, it makes some sense and worth at least thinking about. People just usually say "That's some crazy [censored] the Nazis did," and don't give it a second thought.

[Quanah Parker]

Yea, I tried a few years back and got in bad trouble.

I had rounded up some stray kids and starting breeding 'em for desired traits like size, speed, and loyalty. I was making real progress, and then the "man" showed up and took 'em away .

Man, I shoulda tried the eugenics argument on the judge.

[GovmentCheese]

what if someone told you that you weren't fit to be in the gene pool? I don't believe you'd react favorably.

and not forget - what criteria one would choose - or that if there isn't enough genetic variability - you get hillbillies.

[Gugel]

How's about this. At a certain age (say 16 or so), you are tested for intelligence (something like grades + SAT score + talents) and physical fortitude (predispositions to disease, body type, physical defects, etc.). Based on your ranking, you are assigned the number of children you can have (something like they have in China - 1 baby per couple). the more genetically fit you are, the more baby credits you have, but everyone is entitled to something.

[otnemem]

[ QUOTE ]
By allowing everyone to survive and reproduce, we aren't letting evolution do it's work.

[/ QUOTE ]
We're not? Survival of the fittest doesn't mean murdering people with less desirable traits. If someone is stunted to the point where they are unable to survive, "nature" will take care of them.

[guids]

I dont think you can really start doing this until genetic engineering is about 100 times more advanced.

[Gugel]

[ QUOTE ]
what if someone told you that you weren't fit to be in the gene pool? I don't believe you'd react favorably

[/ QUOTE ]

I obviously wouldn't be too happy. The question is whether my dissatisfaction is worth the long term beneficial consequences to mankind.

Plus, it's a good way to prevent overpopulation.

[doubLe a tom]

fascist elitist ban