Eugenics is a very controversial science that has existed in the world for centuries. Eugenics is defined as "the study or belief in the possibility of improving the qualities of the human species or a human population by such means as discouraging reproduction in persons with genetic defects or presumed to have undesirable hereditary traits (negative eugenics) or encourage reproduction. by people presumed to have hereditary desirable traits (positive eugenics) (Dictionary.com, 2005). » Its basis came from the idea that the human race could be "perfected" by getting rid of its undesirable traits and that desirable traits could be multiplied. . Physical appearance, IQ, and social ability could be controlled in humans, just as the traits of plants and animals could be perfected through Charles Darwin's theory of evolution; that complex creatures evolve naturally from more simplistic ancestors over time. Over time, this mindset placed America and the world in an ethical battle that continued to oscillate between positive and negative. In 1883, Francis Galton, cousin of Charles Darwin, introduced the world to the theory of eugenics and coined the word eugenics. describe methods of improving the human race by regulating reproduction. Galton defined eugenics as “the science of improving the genetic material of the human race through better reproduction (Kevles, 1995).” At that time, there was no evidence that eugenics was anything other than a favored theory, but senior members of society were happy to embrace it. This theory allowed the upper class to justify their discrimination against the lower classes. In the early 20th century, eugenics spread to the masses and flourished for a time. During this middle of paper ......h, this genetic counseling, prospective parents and hopefuls can be directly tested for unwanted genes. If the couple has already conceived, certain tests may be done to detect specific genetic abnormalities in the developing fetus. If a couple is found to be at high risk of hereditary abnormalities, the donor embryos can be examined and, through processes such as in vitro fertilization, can be used to completely eliminate genetic defects ( Eugenics, 2008). Although all eugenics stems from Darwin's fundamental theory of evolution, they have been interpreted very differently throughout history. Modern science has helped America and the world define some of the ethical concerns that have plagued this science over time, but the fact remains that eugenics has always been a very controversial science and likely will be again. until life ceases to exist..