Improvement of the human race by selective breeding is called

Raj. CHO -2024

Pathology & Genetics

Easy

Appeared in: Raj. CHO -2024

Explanation

Eugenics is the science that aims to improve the genetic quality of a human population through selective breeding.
The term was coined by Francis Galton in 1883 from Greek words meaning 'good in birth'.
It involves encouraging reproduction by people with 'desirable' traits (positive eugenics) and discouraging it among those with 'undesirable' traits (negative eugenics).
This concept is distinct from improving the environment (Euthenics) or workplace efficiency (Ergonomics).

Option A: Euthenics focuses on improving the human condition by optimizing environmental factors like nutrition, sanitation, and education, not by altering genetic makeup through breeding.
Option C: Ergonomics is the science of designing and arranging workplaces, products, and systems to fit the people who use them. It is unrelated to genetics or human breeding.
Option D: Euthanasia is the act of intentionally ending a life to relieve pain and suffering. It is concerned with end-of-life decisions, not with improving the genetic traits of future generations.

Visual 1: Flowchart - A flowchart differentiating Eugenics, Euthenics, and Euphenics. It would show 'Eugenics' branching to 'Selective Breeding', 'Euthenics' to 'Environmental Improvement', and 'Euphenics' to 'Treating Genetic Defects'.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definitions of eugenics and related concepts as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the history of eugenics is crucial for nurses to appreciate the ethical principles that govern modern genetic medicine, such as patient autonomy, informed consent, and confidentiality.
Nurses are at the forefront of genetic counseling, where they help families understand genetic risks and make informed decisions, which is the ethical successor to the coercive practices of eugenics.
What if? If a patient asks about 'improving their family's health for future generations,' a nurse must differentiate between promoting healthy lifestyles (Euthenics) and the unethical, discredited concept of selective breeding (Eugenics), guiding the conversation towards appropriate genetic screening and counseling.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of specific scientific terms.
First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'improvement of the human race by selective breeding'.
Next, systematically review the definitions of each option.
Euthenics relates to environment, Ergonomics to work efficiency, and Euthanasia to end-of-life.
Match the key phrase from the question to the correct definition. 'Selective breeding' directly corresponds to the definition of Eugenics.
Eliminate the other options as their definitions do not match the concept described in the stem.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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