The Eugenic Marriage, Vol. 3 A Personal Guide to the New Science of Better Living and Better Babies   By: W. Grant Hague (1868-)

In "The Eugenic Marriage, Vol. 3 A Personal Guide to the New Science of Better Living and Better Babies" by W. Grant Hague, the author delves into the controversial field of eugenics, offering readers a comprehensive guide to improving the human race through selective breeding and conscious parenting. Although published in a time when eugenics was widely debated and considered a legitimate scientific practice, the book's inherent biases and ethical implications make it a challenging read.

Hague explores various aspects of eugenic theory, carefully examining both physical and mental characteristics that are deemed desirable for a perfect human lineage. He provides detailed guidance on how to assess prospective mates, emphasizing the importance of hereditary traits and encouraging the reader to make informed choices to "better" their offspring. Hague's language is often impassioned, as he strongly believes in the potential for eugenics to create a utopian society.

One notable aspect of the book is its extensive use of statistical data and scientific research to support the author's arguments. Hague references numerous studies and presents a wealth of information related to genetics, biology, and psychology. However, the validity and accuracy of this data may be called into question, considering the book's publication date and the evolving understanding of genetics since then.

Critics argue that the most glaring flaw in "The Eugenic Marriage" is its concept of human worth and the potential for discrimination that it entails. The book promotes a troubling mindset that deems certain individuals as unworthy of procreation based on their physical or mental characteristics. Such a perspective is deeply rooted in prejudice, and it is important to approach this book with a strong understanding of the historical context and the subsequent rejection of eugenics as a scientifically valid ideology.

Moreover, Hague's conclusions regarding the superiority and exclusivity of certain racial or ethnic groups are highly problematic. His assertions reflect a narrow-minded perspective that has been widely discredited in the modern era. It is essential to approach this text with a critical eye, recognizing the harmful implications of eugenics and its potential to perpetuate discrimination and injustice.

Overall, "The Eugenic Marriage, Vol. 3 A Personal Guide to the New Science of Better Living and Better Babies" serves as a controversial artifact from a bygone era. While it delves into important topics surrounding genetics and human improvement, readers must be aware of the dangerous ideologies it promotes. Approaching this book with a strong understanding of the historical context and modern scientific knowledge is crucial in order to critically engage with its arguments and ultimately reject the ethics underlying eugenics.

First Page:

The best age at which to marry Incompatibility of temperament A happy marriage need not be a successful one The evils of early marriage The wedding night, its medical aspect The honeymoon When marital relations are painful Times when marital relations should be suspended The first weeks and months of wifehood The formative period A true marriage A wife's true position in the household Only 5% of happy marriages Period of adaptation Differences of opinion Differences of principle The attainment of success Arguing trifles You must know what you want The right kind of wife Contributing to her husband's efficiency What are the requisites of efficiency Good health Thoroughly cooked meals Rest at night Having a system Enough exercise Freedom from worry Do your part The first quarrel Fault finding The husband's efficiency depends upon the wife Work must be interesting The wife's part ... Continue reading book >>