Subject
Eugenics -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charlotte Perkins Gilman
The Crux: A Novel
"The Crux: A Novel" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman is a fiction work written in the early 20th century. The story introduces readers to Vivian Lane and her family, delving into themes surrounding societal expectations, personal growth, and women's roles during a time when these were undergoing significant scrutiny and change. The narrative explores Vivian's life in a small New England town and her desire for independence and purpose amid the limitations imposed by her conservative upbringing. The opening of the novel establishes the setting and introduces characters such as the Foote sisters and the Lane family, who are embroiled in local gossip about a young boy named Morton Elder. As discussions unfold around this family and the societal norms of their community, we see Vivian grappling with her own thoughts about education, marriage, and her aspirations—younger than her parents and looking to strike her own path. Despite the conventional expectations of her environment, Vivian's defiance emerges as she longs for more from life than what traditional roles ascribe to her. This sets the stage for her ensuing journey and challenges, drawing readers into her struggle for self-definition against societal limitations.
Frank Belknap Long
Mating center
"The Mating Center" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The book explores a dystopian society where love and sexual attraction have been suppressed through biological manipulation and societal control, leaving only a select few "sex-privileged" individuals allowed to reproduce. The narrative follows the experiences of Teleman, a non-sex-privileged construction worker, as he grapples with newfound desires and uncovers the rebellion against this restrictive regime. The opening of "The Mating Center" introduces a highly controlled society that views love as a biological function stripped of emotional significance. Teleman experiences an unexplainable stir of desire as he encounters a beautiful woman, leading to a provocative interaction that hints at a breakdown in societal norms. As a monologue at a public gathering reveals the ruling caste's oppressive views toward passionate relationships, a bold female character stands up, expressing her refusal to conform. Tensions escalate as Teleman meets this woman and grapples with his suppressed instincts, setting the stage for the struggle against a system that punishes those who dare to embrace love and desire.
Manfred A. Carter
Colony of the Unfit
"Colony of the Unfit" by Manfred A. Carter is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. Set in a dystopian future where Earth has exiled its sick and disabled citizens to Mars, the narrative explores the harsh realities of this prison planet and the societal implications of directed evolution. The book delves into themes of eugenics, morality, and the value of human life. The story follows John Greely and his companion Hilda as they navigate the unsettling transformation of their society and the drastic measures taken against the afflicted. After being sent to Mars, they face the chilling reality of being part of a population deemed 'unfit' by the Earth leaders. The novel unfolds as they struggle for survival against both their Martian environment and the controlling forces of the Martian society, ultimately confronting the ethical dilemma posed by their existence. As John and Hilda explore their new world, they encounter various characters, including doctors and fellow exiles, who bring to light the complexities of moral choice and the importance of compassion in a world that has prioritized physical perfection over humanity.
Recently surfaced classics