Darwin's Theory: Seeds of Eugenics

Darwin's Theory: Seeds of Eugenics

Year 13 Social Sciences Exploring the Scientific Origins of Social Ideology Lesson 1: Darwin's Influence

Starter Activity: What is Evolution?

Think: What do you understand by 'evolution'? Pair: Share your ideas with a partner Share: Contribute to class brainstorm Time: 10 minutes total

Charles Darwin and Scientific Revolution

Published 'On the Origin of Species' in 1859 Revolutionary scientific work explaining biological diversity Challenged existing beliefs about creation and species Based on careful observation and evidence Transformed our understanding of life on Earth

Key Concepts: Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection

Variation: Individuals within species differ Inheritance: Traits passed to offspring Selection: Environmental pressures favor certain traits Time: Gradual change over many generations Result: Species adapt and evolve

Darwin's Own Words

'It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.' - Charles Darwin Understanding adaptation and survival

Enter Francis Galton: Darwin's Cousin

Born 1822, cousin of Charles Darwin Influenced by Darwin's theory of natural selection Applied biological concepts to human society Coined the term 'eugenics' in 1883 Believed human traits could be 'improved' through selective breeding

Darwin vs. Galton: Different Applications

{"left":"Darwin: Applied to animal and plant species\nGalton: Applied to human populations\nDarwin: Described natural processes","right":"Galton: Proposed artificial selection\nDarwin: Observed what happens in nature\nGalton: Suggested what 'should' happen in society"}

Group Investigation: Galton's Ideas

Form groups of 4 students Read Galton biography and excerpts Discuss: How did Darwin influence Galton? Analyze: What social assumptions did Galton make? Prepare to share findings with class

Critical Thinking Questions

How did Galton misinterpret or extend Darwin's ideas? What social biases influenced Galton's thinking? Is scientific theory ever truly neutral? How can science be misused to support harmful ideologies?

The Birth of Eugenics

Galton coined 'eugenics' meaning 'well-born' Proposed improving human race through selective breeding Assumed some people were 'genetically superior' Ignored environmental and social factors Created pseudoscientific justification for discrimination

From Science to Social Policy: A Dangerous Path

Exit Ticket: Reflection and Assessment

Individual reflection question: 'How did Darwin's theory unintentionally pave the way for eugenics?' Write thoughtful response considering: - Scientific vs. social applications - Role of interpretation and bias - Ethical implications