In Search of Human Nature: The Decline and Revival of Darwinism in American Social Thought

Rating:
Summary: Detailed, Readable Intellectual History
Review: Through intellectual biohgraphies of numerous social thinkers, Carl Degler traces the evolving social implications of biological thought. Degler traces the theme in the writings of individuals, and in the thought of the public and policymakers.

Degler's account only hints at the often ghoulish results (e.g., forced sterilizations). Degler, however, did not intend to fully document American crimes against humanity; he intended to offer the history of a certain theme in American intellectual life. Degler offers a fascinating account of the rise, staggering fall, and gradual comeback of Social Darwinism in American thought.

Rating:
Summary: Detailed, Readable Intellectual History
Review: Through intellectual biohgraphies of numerous social thinkers, Carl Degler traces the evolving social implications of biological thought. Degler traces the theme in the writings of individuals, and in the thought of the public and policymakers.

Degler's account only hints at the often ghoulish results (e.g., forced sterilizations). Degler, however, did not intend to fully document American crimes against humanity; he intended to offer the history of a certain theme in American intellectual life. Degler offers a fascinating account of the rise, staggering fall, and gradual comeback of Social Darwinism in American thought.