In “Parenthood and Race Culture: An Outline of Eugenics,” C. W. Saleeby articulates a controversial exploration of the intersections between parenthood, race, and the emerging field of eugenics during the early 20th century. The book combines scholarly rigor with impassioned rhetoric, revealing the prevailing societal attitudes towards reproduction and racial purity. Saleeby navigates a variety of disciplines'Äîsociology, biology, and ethics'Äîto support his arguments while critiquing contemporary views on inheritance and social responsibility. This text not only reflects the scientific theories of its time but also serves to illuminate the ethical dilemmas surrounding eugenics as a movement within a broader cultural context steeped in racial politics and social engineering. C. W. Saleeby, a prominent figure in early eugenics discourse, was driven by a commitment to social reform and a belief in the biological determinism of human traits. His background in the medical and social sciences informed his advocacy for controlled reproduction as a means to improve societal conditions. Saleeby's works, influenced by the socio-political climate of his era, sought to challenge and transform prevailing notions of race and parenting through a blend of science and ideology. Readers seeking a deeper understanding of the eugenics movement and its implications for contemporary discussions on race and identity will find Saleeby's text an invaluable resource. As a foundational work that articulates the complexities of parenthood intertwined with race culture, “Parenthood and Race Culture” invites critical reflection and conversation surrounding the ethical legacies of eugenics. This book is essential for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the historical roots of reproductive ideologies.
