This monograph discusses Portuguese eugenics within a strong international historiographical comparative framework and situates it within different regional, scientific and ideological types of eugenics in the same period. The author argues about three factors that curtailed the development of eugenics in Portugal: the low level of institutionalization, Catholic opposition and the conservative nature of the Salazar regime. The eugenic science and movement was confined to three principal expressions: individualized studies on mental health, often from a 'biotypological' perspective; a particular stance on racial miscegenation within the context of the existence of large colonies under Portuguese rule; and a diffuse model of social hygiene, maternity care and puericulture. This book not only brings to light an unstudied eugenics movement; it also invites the reader to re-think the relations between northern and southern forms of eugenics, the role of religion, the dynamic nature of eugenics in finding a home for its theories and the nature of colonialism.

Catholicism, Race and Empire and Fully Alive

Write a review

Over 14,000 churches and schools have upgraded to an Advance Account and we‘d love to welcome you into this free program. We know that church volunteers and school teachers often use their own money, then have claim it back on on an expense form. We can take all of that hassle away by invoicing your church or school directly and delivering your order straight away.

Opening an account is quick and easy, with most accounts being approved and setup within a few hours of filling in the form below (on weekdays, not weekends). As soon as we‘ve approved the application we‘ll send you an email to let you know that its done.

Upgrade to a FREE Eden Advance Account