1. History of Eugenics
Social Studies 20

3. Definition
A social philosophy which advocates the improvement of human hereditary traits through various forms of intervention
It has been regarded as a social responsibility, an altruistic (practice of selfless concern for the well- being of others) stance in society
Meant to create healthier, strong and/or intelligent people
To save resources
To lessen human suffering

4. Historical elements Justified under state-sponsored discrimination
Forced Sterilization of populations (genetically defective)
Killing of institutionalized peoples

5. Locations Germany Japan Canada United States Australia
Social Democratic Sweden

6. http://people. clarkson

7. Canada Sexual Sterilization Act (1928) Eugenics (Good Birth)
Alberta government sought to limit the reproduction of many kinds of people (visible minorities, ‘feeble-minded’)
They attributed much of the rise of crime, poverty, alcoholism and other vices to these people

9. Amendments
Dr. W.W. Cross (Minister of Health) deemed the Act too restrictive
Permitted to sterilize for the benefit of the human race rather than the individual
broaden the category of mental patients who could be directed to undergo sterilization
The Alberta Eugenics Board intended to increase the pace of sterilization

10. 1928 - 1972 Almost 3000 people were sterilized
Regardless of reasons in support - the individuals ability to reproduce is viewed as a violation of their constitutional rights
Furthermore, research has shown that mentally challenged people are no more likely to produce offspring with similar impediment than the population at large

11. Tools of the Trade http://statismwatch.ca/1997/06/

12. Leilani Muir She spent most of her life living in foster homes
1955, entered the Michener Centre in Red Deer, Alberta’s Provincial Training School for Mental Defectives
IQ/Interviewed - deemed a ‘moron’
She was never told of the operation
In 1971, she discovered she could not have children after speaking to her doctor.

14. Muir Continued
She brought charges against the Alberta legislation in 1996
It set a precedent for many future settlements awarded to other sterilization victims
She was awarded $ for wrongful sterilization and wrongful confinement
Over 1200 victims have brought suits against the Alberta Government

15. Assignment 10 minutes Why is eugenics appealing to the public?
Why is eugenics considered appealing/appalling?
5 minutes - Get together with a few classmates (4 max) and discuss your answers

16. Thoughts/Comments
What did you think about those that suffered under the Alberta government?
How did the economics of the province play into people’s actions and attitudes?

17. Human Rights Article
Reflecting upon the “Human Rights” article I gave you, are there any comments, suggestions or ideas?