The Purpose of the Eugenics Movement (Essay Sample)

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The Purpose of the Eugenics Movement
Scientific discoveries have been the focal point for delivering solutions to various problems facing humanity. The 19th century saw an increase in the number of scholars attempting to find answers and explain phenomena. In the process, the idea of Eugenics came into being and became so popular during the early 20th century. In America, the Colony of Virginia became the first to consider the idea. As a result, many people were sterilized against their will after the enactment of the Virginia Sterilizing Act in 1924 ("Immigration and Imperialism," n.d.). However, several years after the abolishment of Eugenics, controversy still surrounds the legitimacy and the purpose of the Eugenics Movement. 
Understandably, the movement was steered by individuals who wanted those deemed unfit in society to undergo sterilization to prevent them from passing their undesired genetic traits. Notable individuals included Harry Laughlin, the leader of the Eugenics Record Office and Albert Priddy, the superintendent of the Virginia Colony (Claude Moore Health Science Library, n.d.). The idea was to segregate individuals considered to be having unwanted genetic qualities to prevent proliferation.