Charles Davenport expressed optimisim in 1911 in a textbook on using the new science of genetics to improve humankind through informed breeding. But that promise -- shared by many other geneticists -- was mired in social prejudice and class politics. Still, advocates appealed to the science to pass legislation that limited immigration and allowed sterlization of patients in mental assylums. This historical episode helps students see the role of ideology in shaping the cultural use of science and the importance of scientific consensus in guiding sound policy.

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Instructor's Narrative:

Allchin, D. (2026). Charles Davenport & the Promise of Genetics. The Science Teacher (May). [pre-publication copy]