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Chapter 1. Eugenics and the “Feebleminded”: A Shameful History

Human Development Video Activity
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You must read each slide, and complete any questions on the slide, in sequence.

Eugenics and the “Feebleminded”: A Shameful History

This clip depicts The Fernald School, an institution for the “feebleminded” that existed throughout the early 20th century and that was, in fact, part of the American eugenics movement. It shows interviews with former residents who recall severe abuse and mistreatment and discuss the lasting impact of an incorrect diagnosis of “moron.” The clip further explores evidence that involuntary experiments were conducted on some boys in past decades.

Thumbnail Photo Credit: hagencd/Getty Images

1.

1. What was the purpose of the Fernald School?
Correct!
Incorrect. Its purpose was to provide a method for disposing of unwanted, orphaned children and to prevent the “feebleminded” from reproducing so as to keep the general population from being intellectually degraded.

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2.

2. According to the interviewees, why were approximately 30% of the residents within the normal range of intelligence?
Correct!
Incorrect. They functioned as a cheap labor force that kept the entire school running.

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3.

3. What was The Science Club?
Correct!
Incorrect. It was the name for a group of boys who were given special treats and were unknowingly included in a study testing the effects of radioactive oatmeal.

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