Poster Session 1, 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM: Concourse [B6]

Eugenics: The Lasting Impact on Science

Presenter: Adelaide Sarah Cutler

Faculty Sponsor: Martha Yoder

School: UMass Amherst

Research Area: Public Health and Epidemiology

ABSTRACT

Eugenics was a widely held belief used within medicine and science in early 20th century America that has been largely disproven, however there are still supporters, and remnants in current science. Eugenicists believe only those with desirable traits should reproduce and that genetics are the cause behind good character. It has racist and discriminatory roots, originally created as a way to make a white wealthy America. Involuntary sterilization was legalized federally in America because of eugenic rhetoric, and as such there are many victims. This project aims to provide a look into the pervasive way eugenics have stayed within science, especially genetics. The research involved analysis of many recent genetic studies into hereditary traits and genetic engineering, such as CRISPR. These studies were compared to historical sources on eugenic science, and modern eugenicists’ writings to see similarities. Based on these comparisons the research shows there is still an undercurrent of eugenics in modern science and public health that seems to only be growing. I predict as gene editing technology becomes more advanced its applications will only further highlight the racism, classism, and sexism found in eugenics. It is only by addressing these discriminatory beliefs still in science that the solution to rid them is created.