The spelling of the word "orthogenics" can be a bit tricky. It is pronounced as /ɔːθə(ʊ)ˈdʒɛnɪks/ and has roots in the Greek words for "straight" and "birth". The 'o' in the first syllable is pronounced with a long 'o' sound as in "or". The 'e' in the second syllable is pronounced with a short 'e' sound as in "let". The 'g' in the third syllable is pronounced with a soft 'j' sound as in "giant". Altogether, "orthogenics" refers to the straightening or correction of growth or development.
Orthogenics is a term that refers to a branch of biology concerned with the study of the reproductive behavior and heredity patterns in organisms. It encompasses the principles and practices aimed at improving the biological qualities and characteristics of a species through selective breeding.
The concept of orthogenics emerged in the early 20th century and gained prominence within the fields of genetics and evolution. It primarily focuses on the idea that certain traits and qualities can be enhanced or eradicated by carefully selecting individuals for mating based on desired genetic traits. Through controlled breeding, orthogenics aims to alter the gene pool of a population in order to produce offspring with specific characteristics.
Orthogenics is based on the assumption that genetic traits are heritable, meaning they can be passed from one generation to another. This understanding allows scientists and breeders to make informed decisions regarding which individuals possess desirable traits that should be propagated within a population.
Orthogenics has been applied in various domains such as animal husbandry, agriculture, and botany. It has been used to improve crop yields, enhance livestock productivity, and control the incidence of genetic disorders in human populations.
However, it is worth noting that orthogenics has also been criticized for its potential ethical concerns, as it involves manipulating and controlling the natural reproduction processes of organisms. Additionally, unforeseen consequences can arise from selectively breeding for specific traits, potentially reducing genetic diversity within a population.
The science dealing with the study and treatment of mental and physical defects which obstruct or retard normal development.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "orthogenics" is derived from two root words: "ortho" and "genics".
The prefix "ortho" comes from the Greek word "orthos", meaning "right", "correct", or "straight". It commonly denotes the idea of something being straight or aligned in a correct way. In the context of "orthogenics", it refers to bringing something into a straight or correct alignment.
The suffix "genics" is derived from the Greek word "genos", meaning "race", "kind", "offspring", or "birth". It is commonly used to denote the production or formation of something. It is derived from the Greek word "gennan", meaning "to beget" or "to produce".
When combined, "orthogenics" refers to the application or process of bringing something into correct or straight alignment.