Kallikak Family: A Study in the Heredity of Feeble-Mindedness by Henry Goddard

"The Kallikak Family: A Study in the Heredity of Feeble-Mindedness," authored by Henry Herbert Goddard, is a seminal work published in 1914 that explores the implications of heredity on intelligence and mental health. Goddard presents a case study of the Kallikak family, tracing the lineage of a man who fathered children with both a feeble-minded woman and a "normal" woman. Through this examination, he argues that feeble-mindedness can be inherited and poses significant social threats, advocating for eugenics as a solution. The book is significant for its early exploration of genetics and mental disability, but it has also faced substantial criticism for its flawed methodology, ethical concerns, and the stigmatization of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Despite its historical context, "The Kallikak Family" serves as an important reminder of the complexities surrounding heredity, social policy, and the treatment of marginalized populations, prompting ongoing discussions about ethics in science and society.